We explored the impact of magnesium on secretory diarrhea, particularly in the context of cholera, a significant global health issue. The focus was on understanding how magnesium, often overlooked, could serve as an effective treatment option. In our study, we found that increasing levels of magnesium can significantly inhibit chloride secretion in intestinal cells, which is crucial during episodes of diarrhea.
We observed that magnesium, at concentrations typically seen in stool, reduced this secretory process by a remarkable 65%. This effect primarily occurs through a specific receptor in the intestinal cells known as the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR). Interestingly, we noted that magnesium also counteracted Cl- secretion triggered by cholera toxin and other enterotoxins by about 50%.
Using mouse models, we saw that administering magnesium effectively decreased fluid loss associated with cholera by 40%. In a model mimicking the intestinal environment during cholera, adding magnesium not only curbed fluid secretion but also reversed it, promoting absorption instead. Given that patients suffering from cholera often have negligible magnesium levels in their stool, our findings suggest that oral magnesium supplementation could be a simple but effective therapeutic strategy for managing cholera and potentially other forms of secretory diarrhea.
No stomach upset
Most Useful Review
I've been using Life Extension, Extend-Release Magnesium for a few months, and I've noticed a positive change in my health. Magnesium is vital for many bodily functions like energy production and muscle relaxation. This product offers a slow release formula that prevents spikes or crashes, and unlike other magnesium supplements, it doesn't cause stomach upset or diarrhoea. I feel calmer and more balanced since I started using it.