Disturbances in magnesium homeostasis are frequent clinical conditions, particularly the prevalence of hypomagnesaemia is high. However, it remains an open question which laboratory method is optimal to assess the magnesium level in the body. Most frequently physicians measure total magnesium in serum. Many associative data from observational studies point towards an association between low magnesium levels and increased cardiovascular risk as well as increased mortality. Vice versa, normal-to-high magnesium levels in patients with advanced renal failure translate to a better outcome. The present review summarizes our knowledge on protective effects of magnesium. Additionally, we address the limited evidence supporting targeted magnesium supplementation.
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