New Viridian Study Reveals Risk of Health Issues Due to Lack of Knowledge on Magnesium

A new nationwide survey of more than 2,000 people reveals a worrying lack of understanding about magnesium, a vital mineral essential for overall health.

The survey conducted by ethical vitamin company Viridian Nutrition, who have also published a White Paper on Magnesium, found that an alarming 70 per cent of people don’t realise it’s essential to consume magnesium and almost three quarters of people (73%) don’t supplement regularly or frequently with magnesium – yet they could benefit.

“The findings suggest that confusion surrounding dietary sources, supplement types, and magnesium’s role in the body is leading to ineffective supplementation and potential health risks,” says Aimee Benbow, Head Nutritionist from Viridian Nutrition.

A Growing Health Crisis Linked to Magnesium Deficiency

Hospital admissions for bone-related issues in the UK are on the rise, with hip fractures alone accounting for approximately 75,000 cases annually.¹

Projections suggest this figure could more than double by 2060, raising concerns about magnesium intake and bone health.

“This is worrying when figures show that up to three-quarters of us globally (World Health Organisation) are low in this misunderstood nutrient,says Dr Lindsy Kass, a Senior Research Fellow in Health and Exercise Physiology and Performance Nutrition, at the University of Hertfordshire.

The survey also revealed that 38 per cent of respondents live with a chronic health condition, and one in five of those suffer from a cardiovascular issue such as high blood pressure, a condition where magnesium plays a key supportive role.

Yet 40 per cent of respondents believe magnesium is beneficial but not necessary, while one in three (35%) admitted they sometimes include foods in their diet to increase magnesium, many cited foods low in magnesium when asked which they we adding to their diet.

Alarmingly, two-fifths (42%) said they rarely or never included food in their diet specifically to increase magnesium and know that diets high in ultra-processed foods, such is in western diets, have been shown to be lower in magnesium.

When asked about specific food sources, the results highlighted a lack of nutritional awareness. For example, only 7 per cent of respondents said they add pumpkin seeds —one of the richest sources of magnesium — to their diet.

Aimee says: “Magnesium is found in many foods, yet our survey highlights a significant gap in nutritional knowledge.

“While it is possible to meet the recommended daily intake of magnesium through diet alone, it requires a conscious effort to consistently include magnesium-rich foods.

“For many, supplementation provides an easier and more reliable way to ensure sufficient intake.”

In recent years, magnesium supplementation has surged in popularity with global sales predicted to double by 2032 (data from Data Intello market research) thanks largely to its use as a sleep-promoting nutrient

 

Misunderstandings About Magnesium’s Health Benefits

Dr Kass adds: “This multi-tasking mineral has a huge number of other important functions that people clearly aren’t aware of.

Sleep support was the most commonly cited reason for taking magnesium, with one in three (34%) people taking these supplements doing so to improve sleep. Other widely recognised benefits included muscle and nerve function, while a quarter of those surveyed believed magnesium helps to maintain strong bones.

However, 28 per cent admitted they were unclear on magnesium’s exact role to the body.

Magnesium does far more than just support muscles and sleep—it plays a surprising role in many aspects of health.

From bone health and easing migraines to improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation, this essential mineral is vital for overall well-being. It can even help with PMS symptoms and support brain function.

Yet, research² shows that up to 75% of people worldwide don’t get enough magnesium, potentially increasing their risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The survey also highlighted misconceptions about the consequences of magnesium deficiency.

The most recognised effects included fatigue and tiredness due to prolonged low magnesium levels, followed by muscle cramps and spasms.

However,nearly three quarters (73%) do not take regularly or frequently a magnesium supplement, despite its crucial role in bone health, cardiovascular function, and nervous system support.

Aimee explains: “Magnesium is essential for bone density, muscle function, and overall cardiovascular health. Deficiency can lead to weakened bones, an increased risk of fractures, fatigue, and very extreme cases may lead to irregular heartbeat and even anxiety.

“Emerging research also suggests magnesium plays a role in blood glucose control and blood pressure regulation.”

Dr Kass adds: “My research at the University of Hertfordshire has extensively covered the role of magnesium for both health and exercise performance.  During this time, I’ve analysed physical data, dietary intakes and expert opinions in relation to magnesium and believe that the lack of knowledge, as well as the decrease in magnesium intake, makes this micronutrient one that clearly needs further exploration and explanation to the general public.”

Confusion Over Different Types of Magnesium Supplements

When it comes to supplementation, many consumers remain uncertain about the different types of magnesium.

More than half (51%) were unable to name one type of magnesium from a list of the most common supplement forms of the mineral, suggesting they may not be using the right type of magnesium they need.

Phil Beard, Nutritionist from Viridian Nutrition, advises: “There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ magnesium. Some people benefit from a specific form, while others may need a blend which can provide additional specific health benefits. Liquid or powdered formats may also be more suitable for certain individuals who are seeking flexible dosages.

“Consider ionic magnesium which is easier for the body to absorb and utilise, not bound to any other compound and it doesn’t require to be broken down.

“Sourced from the Great Salt Lake in Utah and sun-dried for 2 years to increase concentration.”

Phil continues: “Choose purity, especially products that are earth-sourced, particularly when the magnesium is bound to another compound and make sure it contains 100% active ingredients.

“This will provide the highest natural potency without any fillers, binders, glues, irradiation, or lubricants from mass production.

“It is also important to trial a supplement consistently for at least 30 days to assess its effectiveness before switching to a different type.”

Aimee says: “This survey underscores the urgent need for greater public education on magnesium and its role in health. Viridian Nutrition has developed a comprehensive White Paper on magnesium to address the widespread confusion and lack of awareness surrounding this essential mineral.

 

"As confusion persists over dietary sources, supplement types, and magnesium’s benefits, many people are at risk of ineffective supplementation and potential health consequences. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential to ensure individuals make informed choices for their long-term health and well-being.”

Resources

Read the Magnesium White Paper here. 

Find out more about magnesium, its roles and different forms and supplements. Learn more

For supplement, diet and lifestyle advice, visit your nearest independent health store: www.findahealthstore.com

 

 

References

 

1 NICE Guidance. Hip Fracture Management  https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg124/resources/hip-fracture-management-pdf-35109449902789

2 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5786912/