Dietary Magnesium Intake in Relation to Depression in Adults: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-analysis of Epidemiologic Studies.
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring how dietary magnesium (Mg) intake connects with depression among adults. By reviewing data from over 63,000 individuals, we found that those with the highest magnesium intake had a 34% lower chance of experiencing depression compared to those with the lowest intake.
Furthermore, our analysis indicated that every increase of 100 mg per day in magnesium intake was linked to a 7% reduced risk of depression. These findings suggest that increasing dietary magnesium could play a valuable role in lowering depression risk.
Read More
8
Magnesium levels linked to depression
Associations between magnesium depletion score and depression among individuals aged 20 to 60 years.
This study examined how magnesium deficiency relates to depression in adults aged 20 to 60. By using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2005 to 2018, we analyzed the magnesium depletion score (MDS) while assessing depression through the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.
Our findings reveal a positive association: as the MDS increases, so does the likelihood of depression. Each one-unit rise in MDS raises the odds of depression. However, results varied with different MDS levels. While these results are promising, further research is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms better.
Read More
8
Magnesium lowers depressive symptoms
Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Modify the Effect of Magnesium on Depressive Symptoms: A Population-Based Study.
We examined the role of magnesium levels in relation to depressive symptoms through a comprehensive analysis of data from Taiwan's Nutrition and Health Survey. Involving 2,196 participants, we employed logistic and linear regression methods to assess these relationships.
Our findings revealed that higher magnesium levels correlated with fewer depressive symptoms. Interestingly, this connection was stronger in individuals with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, suggesting that inflammation influences how magnesium affects mood.
Overall, maintaining adequate magnesium levels might be beneficial, especially for those dealing with inflammation.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Essential for well-being
3 people found this helpful
Magnesium is vital for human health, with 60% found in bones. Chelated forms, such as Magnesium Glycinate, are absorbed faster and are gentle on digestion. It is prescribed for headaches, seizures, anxiety, and depression. I take 2 capsules at night and recommend this quality product.
Read More
9
Anxiety reducer
Magnesium glycinate effectively eliminates anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia for me. I was pleased with this brand.
Read More
7.5
Hope for recovery
I take this medication for restful sleep and to alleviate symptoms of depression. It brings a sense of hope that everything will be alright.
Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial.
We explored the effectiveness of magnesium coupled with vitamin D in easing depressive symptoms among individuals with long-COVID. Our study involved 60 participants suffering from mild to moderate depression, hypomagnesemia, and vitamin D deficiency.
Over four months, those who received both magnesium and vitamin D showed significant improvements in their depression scores compared to those who only took vitamin D. Specifically, a notable 73% of the magnesium group achieved significant relief, positioning this combination as a promising treatment for depression linked to long-COVID.
Mild side effects were noted but did not lead to any withdrawals, indicating the safety of this treatment option.
Read More
9
Magnesium intake reduces depression risk
Dietary Magnesium Intake in Relation to Depression in Adults: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-analysis of Epidemiologic Studies.
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring how dietary magnesium (Mg) intake connects with depression among adults. By reviewing data from over 63,000 individuals, we found that those with the highest magnesium intake had a 34% lower chance of experiencing depression compared to those with the lowest intake.
Furthermore, our analysis indicated that every increase of 100 mg per day in magnesium intake was linked to a 7% reduced risk of depression. These findings suggest that increasing dietary magnesium could play a valuable role in lowering depression risk.
Read More
8
Magnesium linked to lower depression risk
Association between nutrient patterns and odds of depressive symptomatology: a population-based cohort of older adults followed during 15-y.
We examined how various nutrient patterns affect depressive symptoms in older adults through a detailed study involving over 1,000 participants.
By evaluating nutrient intake and depressive symptoms over more than 15 years, we found that those with a diet high in magnesium and several other nutrients had significantly lower odds of experiencing depressive symptoms.
This suggests that nutrients, particularly magnesium, might play a crucial role in supporting mental health in older adults.
Read More
8
Magnesium deficiency correlates with depression
Magnesium depletion score and depression: a positive correlation among US adults.
This study examined the relationship between magnesium deficiency, measured by the Magnesium Depletion Score (MDS), and depression among U.S. adults. We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, focusing on those with moderate to severe depression.
Our findings revealed a significant link—higher MDS scores led to an increased risk of depression. Specifically, for each unit rise in MDS, the chance of developing depression increased by 13%. Interestingly, those with severe magnesium deficiency saw a staggering 58% rise in depression likelihood. This suggests that improving magnesium levels could be beneficial for both preventing and treating depression.
Read More
8
Magnesium levels linked to depression
Associations between magnesium depletion score and depression among individuals aged 20 to 60 years.
This study examined how magnesium deficiency relates to depression in adults aged 20 to 60. By using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2005 to 2018, we analyzed the magnesium depletion score (MDS) while assessing depression through the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.
Our findings reveal a positive association: as the MDS increases, so does the likelihood of depression. Each one-unit rise in MDS raises the odds of depression. However, results varied with different MDS levels. While these results are promising, further research is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms better.
Magnesium is vital for human health, with 60% found in bones. Chelated forms, such as Magnesium Glycinate, are absorbed faster and are gentle on digestion. It is prescribed for headaches, seizures, anxiety, and depression. I take 2 capsules at night and recommend this quality product.
Read More
9
Anxiety reducer
Magnesium glycinate effectively eliminates anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia for me. I was pleased with this brand.
Read More
7.5
Hope for recovery
I take this medication for restful sleep and to alleviate symptoms of depression. It brings a sense of hope that everything will be alright.
Read More
7.5
Supports mental health
9 people found this helpful
Magnesium glycinate is the best-absorbing form of magnesium and is gentle on the stomach. It supports bone, nerve, heart health and digestive functioning. This mineral helps convert food into energy and is known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Read More
7.5
Quick relief
1 people found this helpful
The chelated form of magnesium is easily absorbed and offers quick relief. I take Magnesium glycinate for headaches, seizures, depression, and anxiety. It’s gentle on digestion with no laxative effects, and I take one capsule after dinner.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it goes beyond just feeling down; it can interfere significantly with daily life, impacting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Symptoms of depression may include changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness or suicide.
The causes of depression are complex and may involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While it's a serious condition that can be debilitating, the good news is that it is treatable. Various treatment options are available, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seeking help from a healthcare professional is a crucial step toward recovery.
Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a lightweight, silvery-white metal that is a member of the alkaline earth metals group. Often classified as one of the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust, magnesium plays a crucial role in various biological functions and is essential for living organisms. In nature, magnesium can be found in large quantities, primarily in minerals such as dolomite and magnesite, and it is also present in seawater.
In terms of health benefits, magnesium is vital for numerous metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA synthesis, and muscle function. It contributes to bone health, helps regulate blood pressure, and supports bone formation by promoting the effects of vitamin D. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and gender, but it is generally important to include magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet to ensure adequate intake. For those who may not receive enough magnesium through their diet alone, supplements are also available; however, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation.
Recent research suggests that magnesium may play a role in managing symptoms of depression, though the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. Magnesium is essential for numerous biochemical processes in the body, including neurotransmitter function and hormonal regulation. Some studies have indicated that low magnesium levels are associated with a higher incidence of depression and that supplementation might improve mood and reduce anxiety in some individuals. However, it is important to note that while magnesium could potentially support mental health, it should not replace conventional treatments like therapy or medication, especially for severe depression.
If you're considering magnesium supplementation as a part of your wellness routine, it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you assess your specific needs, including dietary intake and any potential interactions with medications you may be taking. In addition, magnesium can be found in various dietary sources like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, which can contribute to a holistic approach to mental health. Overall, while magnesium may offer some benefits, it should be viewed as a complementary option rather than a primary treatment strategy for depression.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from supplements like magnesium glycinate for depression can vary significantly among individuals. Some users report quick relief and a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within a short period of starting the supplement. For instance, one reviewer mentioned experiencing relief from anxiety and depression shortly after beginning the regimen, highlighting the form's fast absorption properties Read Review.
Others suggest that while they felt benefits almost immediately, a sustained regime is essential for optimal results. One user noted that magnesium helps bring a sense of hope and improvement over time, indicating that while initial effects may be felt quickly, the full impact could require consistent use Read Review. Overall, it appears that users can expect to see varying results within days to weeks, depending on individual circumstances and consistency of use.
Research supports a connection between magnesium supplementation and alleviation of depression symptoms. Several studies have demonstrated that higher magnesium levels correlate with fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting a protective role for magnesium in mental health. For instance, a study involving over 63,000 individuals found that those with a high dietary magnesium intake had a 34% lower chance of experiencing depression compared to those with lower intake levels [8]. Furthermore, specific clinical trials exploring magnesium supplementation have reported significant improvements in mood and depression scores, particularly in specific groups such as individuals with long-COVID or those recovering from surgery [3][14].
Interestingly, while some studies show a promising relationship, others indicate that the effects of magnesium on depression outcomes may not be entirely definitive. Mixed evidence regarding the causality of magnesium’s impact on depression has been noted, and some analyses suggest that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved [5][10]. Overall, while magnesium supplementation appears to be a beneficial adjunct in managing depression, it's recommended that individuals consider discussing it with healthcare professionals for tailored advice.
Users have reported a range of improvements in symptoms when taking magnesium glycinate, particularly for anxiety and depression. One reviewer noted that this supplement effectively eliminates anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia, suggesting significant relief from these conditions Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment, mentioning that magnesium helps alleviate symptoms of depression and brings a sense of hope Read Review.
Moreover, users appreciate the quick absorption of this chelated form, leading to faster symptom relief. For instance, a reviewer highlighted experiencing quick relief from headaches, seizures, depression, and anxiety, emphasizing the gentle nature on digestion Read Review. Although individual results can vary, the feedback indicates a consensus that magnesium glycinate can be beneficial for many facing these challenges.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining magnesium glycinate with other supplements for managing depression. One user mentioned that magnesium glycinate is vital for overall health and works well alongside other treatments, particularly due to its faster absorption rates compared to other forms of magnesium Read Review. Additionally, another reviewer shared that they take magnesium to complement their regimen aimed at alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, reinforcing its role as a supportive supplement Read Review.
The consensus among users indicates that many find magnesium glycinate not only effective on its own but also beneficial when used in combination with other supplements. For instance, one user reported significant relief from anxiety and depression, suggesting that magnesium glycinate enhances the effects of their overall supplement intake by providing a sense of hope and emotional stability Read Review. The gentle nature and quick absorption of magnesium glycinate allow users to feel improvements promptly, further encouraging its use alongside other supportive supplements Read Review.
Users shared varied experiences regarding the appropriate dosage of Magnesium for treating depression, often emphasizing the effectiveness of chelated forms like Magnesium Glycinate. Some users, such as those using review ID 'c2812cae-fc8c-4cfb-afb1-6d644bb4eee0', recommended taking two capsules at night, highlighting its benefits for mood improvement alongside being gentle on digestion. Others indicated success with lower doses; for example, a user from review ID '1163d7e0-bd9d-47ad-bb39-49da9d239cdd' reported taking just one capsule after dinner for relief from depression and anxiety.
7.5
Quick relief
1 people found this helpful
The chelated form of magnesium is easily absorbed and offers quick relief. I take Magnesium glycinate for headaches, seizures, depression, and anxiety. It’s gentle on digestion with no laxative effects, and I take one capsule after dinner.
7.5
Hope for recovery
I take this medication for restful sleep and to alleviate symptoms of depression. It brings a sense of hope that everything will be alright.
9
Anxiety reducer
Magnesium glycinate effectively eliminates anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia for me. I was pleased with this brand.
9
Essential for well-being
3 people found this helpful
Magnesium is vital for human health, with 60% found in bones. Chelated forms, such as Magnesium Glycinate, are absorbed faster and are gentle on digestion. It is prescribed for headaches, seizures, anxiety, and depression. I take 2 capsules at night and recommend this quality product.
7.5
Supports mental health
9 people found this helpful
Magnesium glycinate is the best-absorbing form of magnesium and is gentle on the stomach. It supports bone, nerve, heart health and digestive functioning. This mineral helps convert food into energy and is known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
9
Magnesium intake reduces depression risk
Dietary Magnesium Intake in Relation to Depression in Adults: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-analysis of Epidemiologic Studies.
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring how dietary magnesium (Mg) intake connects with depression among adults. By reviewing data from over 63,000 individuals, we found that those with the highest magnesium intake had a 34% lower chance of experiencing depression compared to those with the lowest intake.
Furthermore, our analysis indicated that every increase of 100 mg per day in magnesium intake was linked to a 7% reduced risk of depression. These findings suggest that increasing dietary magnesium could play a valuable role in lowering depression risk.
9.5
Magnesium and Vitamin D effective for depression
Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial.
We explored the effectiveness of magnesium coupled with vitamin D in easing depressive symptoms among individuals with long-COVID. Our study involved 60 participants suffering from mild to moderate depression, hypomagnesemia, and vitamin D deficiency.
Over four months, those who received both magnesium and vitamin D showed significant improvements in their depression scores compared to those who only took vitamin D. Specifically, a notable 73% of the magnesium group achieved significant relief, positioning this combination as a promising treatment for depression linked to long-COVID.
Mild side effects were noted but did not lead to any withdrawals, indicating the safety of this treatment option.
8
Magnesium aids post-surgery recovery
Effect of short-term magnesium supplementation on anxiety, depression and sleep quality in patients after open-heart surgery.
We explored how magnesium supplementation might help patients manage anxiety, depression, and sleep quality after open-heart surgery. In a clinical trial, 60 participants were divided into two groups: one received 500 mg of magnesium daily while the other got standard care.
Our findings showed that those who took magnesium had lower feelings of anxiety and depression compared to the control group. Additionally, their sleep quality also improved significantly. This suggests that including magnesium in post-surgery treatment plans may support recovery by enhancing mental well-being.
4
Limited evidence on magnesium's benefits
Micronutrients and Major Depression: A Mendelian Randomisation Study.
We explored the impact of micronutrients on major depressive disorder (MDD) and recurrent depression (rMDD) using genetic data. Our comprehensive analysis, drawing from a large dataset, indicated weak evidence that certain micronutrients like magnesium could influence depression outcomes.
While iron, copper, and vitamin D showed some promise for protective benefits, the evidence surrounding magnesium was mixed, leaving us uncertain about its true effect. Importantly, we found no strong causal links for other micronutrients, signaling the need for further research into their potential risks and benefits.
8
Magnesium lowers depressive symptoms
Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Modify the Effect of Magnesium on Depressive Symptoms: A Population-Based Study.
We examined the role of magnesium levels in relation to depressive symptoms through a comprehensive analysis of data from Taiwan's Nutrition and Health Survey. Involving 2,196 participants, we employed logistic and linear regression methods to assess these relationships.
Our findings revealed that higher magnesium levels correlated with fewer depressive symptoms. Interestingly, this connection was stronger in individuals with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, suggesting that inflammation influences how magnesium affects mood.
Overall, maintaining adequate magnesium levels might be beneficial, especially for those dealing with inflammation.
References
Serefko A, Lachowicz-Radulska J, Szopa A, Herbet M, Czylkowska A, et al. The Novel Imipramine-Magnesium Complex Exerts Antidepressant-like Activity in Mice Subjected to the Forced Swim Test and the Tail Suspension Test. Molecules. 2025;30. doi:10.3390/molecules30030519
Bardinet J, Pouchieu C, Chuy V, Merle B, Pellay H, et al. Association between nutrient patterns and odds of depressive symptomatology: a population-based cohort of older adults followed during 15-y. Eur J Nutr. 2025;64:88. doi:10.1007/s00394-025-03597-x
Rodríguez-Morán M, Guerrero-Romero F, Barragán-Zuñiga J, Gamboa-Gómez CI, Weyman-Vela Y, et al. Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial. Magnes Res. 2024;37:49. doi:10.1684/mrh.2024.0535
Zhao W, Jin H. Magnesium depletion score and depression: a positive correlation among US adults. Front Public Health. 2024;12:1486434. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2024.1486434
Carnegie RE, Zheng J, Borges MC, Jones HJ, Wade KH, et al. Micronutrients and Major Depression: A Mendelian Randomisation Study. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16213690
Cai Z, She J, Liu X, Li R, Guo S, et al. Associations between magnesium depletion score and depression among individuals aged 20 to 60 years. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2024;86:127543. doi:10.1016/j.jtemb.2024.127543
Strodl E, Bambling M, Parnam S, Ritchie G, Cramb S, et al. Probiotics and magnesium orotate for the treatment of major depressive disorder: a randomised double blind controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2024;14:20841. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-71093-z
Hajhashemy Z, Shirani F, Askari G. Dietary Magnesium Intake in Relation to Depression in Adults: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-analysis of Epidemiologic Studies. Nutr Rev. 2025;83:217. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuae056
Abdelmoneam AH, Khafagy GM, Elbeh KA, Hasan MDA. Impact of Magnesium and Ferritin Deficiency on Depression Among Adolescent Students. J Prim Care Community Health. 2024;15:21501319241252570. doi:10.1177/21501319241252570
Chou MH, Yang YK, Wang JD, Lin CY, Lin SH. Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Modify the Effect of Magnesium on Depressive Symptoms: A Population-Based Study. Nutrients. 2023;15. doi:10.3390/nu15071560
Chou MH, Yang YK, Wang JD, Lin CY, Lin SH. The Association of Serum and Dietary Magnesium with Depressive Symptoms. Nutrients. 2023;15. doi:10.3390/nu15030774
Li Z, Chen K, Shao Q, Lu H, Zhang X, et al. Nanoparticulate MgH ameliorates anxiety/depression-like behaviors in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis by regulating microglial polarization and oxidative stress. J Neuroinflammation. 2023;20:16. doi:10.1186/s12974-023-02696-y
Wang H, Jin M, Xie M, Yang Y, Xue F, et al. Protective role of antioxidant supplementation for depression and anxiety: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. J Affect Disord. 2023;323:264. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2022.11.072
Saba S, Faizi F, Sepandi M, Nehrir B. Effect of short-term magnesium supplementation on anxiety, depression and sleep quality in patients after open-heart surgery. Magnes Res. 2022;35:62. doi:10.1684/mrh.2022.0503
Abiri B, Sarbakhsh P, Vafa M. Randomized study of the effects of vitamin D and/or magnesium supplementation on mood, serum levels of BDNF, inflammation, and SIRT1 in obese women with mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Nutr Neurosci. 2022;25:2123. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2021.1945859
Miller ES, Sakowicz A, Roy A, Wang A, Yang A, et al. Is peripartum magnesium sulfate associated with a reduction in postpartum depressive symptoms?. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM. 2021;3:100407. doi:10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100407