Evidence supporting the use of: Magnesium
For the body system: Adrenal Glands

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Magnesium is commonly used to support adrenal gland function, particularly in the context of stress and fatigue. Scientifically, magnesium plays a crucial role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the body's response to stress. Several studies have demonstrated that magnesium deficiency can enhance the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), potentially contributing to symptoms of "adrenal fatigue" (a non-medical term used to describe chronic stress-related symptoms). Magnesium supplementation has been shown to help normalize HPA axis activity and reduce the physiological impact of stress in both animal and human studies.

For example, a 2012 review in Neuropharmacology summarized evidence that magnesium can reduce stress-induced HPA axis activation and anxiety-like behavior. Clinical research also suggests that adequate magnesium levels are associated with improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and better resilience to stress, all of which are indirectly supportive of adrenal health. However, there is limited direct clinical research specifically targeting magnesium supplementation for diagnosed adrenal gland disorders such as Addison’s disease.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence that magnesium supports the body's stress response by modulating the HPA axis, which, in turn, supports the function of the adrenal glands. However, more targeted clinical trials are needed to fully characterize its benefits for specific adrenal gland disorders.

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