Effect of Magnesium Supplementation on Elevated Systolic Blood Pressure

The purpose of this study is to assess whether 480 mg/day magnesium glycinate supplementation for 12 weeks lowers blood pressure.

Inclusion Criteria:Self-report of systolic blood pressure 125-139 mmHgMeasured seated systolic blood pressure 130-154 mmHg at screening visitBody mass index less than 40 kg/m2Total magnesium intake from supplements of no more than 100 mg/dayWilling to maintain current diet and supplement use patterns during the 12-week intervention periodExclusion Criteria:Current or past history of anti-hypertensive medication useMeasured seated diastolic blood pressure 100 mmHg or greater at screening visitAntacid or laxative use 4 times/week or more within the past 3 monthsHistory of cardiovascular disease (myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization [coronary artery bypass graft or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty], or angina pectoris)History of invasive cancer diagnosed within the last 5 years (non-melanoma skin cancer permitted)History of type 1 or 2 diabetesHistory of renal diseaseHistory of kidney failureHistory of dialysisHistory of pancreatitisHistory of inflammatory bowel diseaseHistory of hypermagnesemiaWomen who are pregnant, nursing, or intend to become pregnant during the period of treatmentPlan to relocate out of Boston area within the next yearUnwillingness and/or inability to swallow 4 pills per dayInability to provide written informed consent