Apr 15, 2017 09:39 PM EDT By Ava Jones, UniversityHerald Reporter

New research from the University of Bristol shows magnesium could prevent bone fractures. Magnesium is an important element that keeps the bone healthy. The study shows that men who have lower blood levels of magnesium are more likely to suffer bone fracture.

Researchers from the Universities of Bristol and Eastern Finland studied 2,245 middle-aged men in a span of 20 years, Eureka Alert reported. They found that the risk of suffering bone fracture is lower by 44 percent among those who have higher blood levels of magnesium. Meanwhile, the study also confirmed previous claims that dietary magnesium intake is not linked to fractures.

University of Bristol's Musculoskeletal Research Unit Fellow and lead researcher of the new study Dr. Setor Kunutsor said avoiding low serum concentrations of magnesium could potentially help, but it is yet to be proven scientifically. The blood levels of magnesium will vary based on the intake of water and food, but elderly people, those with bowel disorders, and people under certain medications may not get the proper effects.

To avoid low blood levels of magnesium, experts suggest treating the underlying conditions first, or try magnesium supplementation. Bone fracture may be one of the leading causes for disability among elderly people, but it is also one of the most preventable conditions. Some 6 million people in the United States will break a bone, most of them will suffer fractures on their forearm, hip, and spine, Medical News Today reported.

Calcium and Vitamin D are very important in keeping bones healthy. Meanwhile magnesium deficiency is also linked to higher risk of osteoporosis. Low levels of magnesium can stop vitamin D and calcium homeostasis in people's bones.

Blood magnesium is not regularly measured in hospitals, making it very difficult to spot people who have low magnesium levels. This new study may encourage to routinely check blood magnesium, especially among the elderly.

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