A Vanderbilt University Medical Center clinical trial found that magnesium supplementation increased gut bacteria tied to vitamin D production and colorectal cancer protection, with results influenced by sex and TRPM7 gene function.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A clinical trial from Vanderbilt University Medical Center has found that magnesium supplementation may support gut bacteria involved in vitamin D production and colorectal cancer protection, adding new detail to research on nutrition, genetics and rising colon cancer rates.
The study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, examined whether magnesium supplements could affect the gut microbiome in ways that may influence colorectal cancer risk. Researchers conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial and grouped participants based on TRPM7 genotype, a genetic factor involved in the body’s regulation of magnesium and calcium.
The trial found that magnesium supplementation increased two beneficial gut bacteria, Carnobacterium maltaromaticum and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Researchers said those bacteria appear to work together to synthesize vitamin D in the gut and inhibit colorectal cancer development.
The findings are notable because vitamin D is usually associated with sunlight, food and supplements. The Vanderbilt research points to another possible pathway: local vitamin D production by gut bacteria when supported by adequate magnesium intake.
“Our previous study showed magnesium supplementation increased blood levels of vitamin D when vitamin D levels were low,” said Qi Dai, MD, Ph.D., professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt. “The current study reveals that magnesium supplementation also increases the gut microbes which have been shown to synthesize vitamin D in the gut without sunlight and locally inhibit colorectal cancer development.”
Researchers reported that the protective effects were strongest among female participants. They said estrogen may help explain the difference because of its role in moving magnesium from circulation into cellular uptake.
The study included 236 participants, all of whom had a history of colorectal polyps. Of those participants, 124 underwent colonoscopies after completing the trial, with a median follow-up time of 3.5 years.
Researchers also found that a higher abundance of F. prausnitzii in rectal mucosa was associated with an almost threefold increase in developing additional polyps. The findings suggest the relationship between gut bacteria, magnesium and colorectal cancer risk may depend on where bacteria are present, how the body processes magnesium and which genetic factors are involved.
The TRPM7 gene appeared to play an important role. Among participants with adequate TRPM7 function, magnesium supplementation increased beneficial bacteria. Among those with inadequate TRPM7 function, supplementation reduced F. prausnitzii in rectal mucosa.
Researchers said the results suggest magnesium supplementation may decrease colorectal cancer risk specifically in people with inadequate TRPM7 function.
The study comes as colorectal cancer rates continue climbing, particularly among younger adults. Researchers and health experts have increasingly focused on overlapping risk factors, including genetics, diet, gut health and screening behavior.
Experts cautioned that magnesium should not be viewed as a standalone solution. Colonoscopies remain the leading tool for prevention and early detection, and colorectal cancer prevention still depends on multiple steps, including a healthy diet, regular exercise and routine medical checkups.
Magnesium is found naturally in many common foods. Rich sources include leafy greens such as spinach and Swiss chard, nuts and seeds including pumpkin seeds and almonds, legumes such as black beans and lentils, whole grains including quinoa and brown rice, and dark chocolate containing at least 70% cacao.
Possible signs of low magnesium include muscle cramps, fatigue, poor sleep and irritability. For people considering supplementation, magnesium bisglycinate is described as a well-tolerated and readily absorbed option. Health experts recommend consulting a doctor before starting supplements, especially for people taking medications or those with kidney concerns.
The Vanderbilt findings add to evidence that gut health may be one part of colorectal cancer prevention. By supporting bacteria that can produce vitamin D locally in the gut, adequate magnesium intake may offer another layer of protection alongside screenings, diet, exercise and medical care.
Source: Natural News