Skip to content

Systematic review, 2019

Is low magnesium linked to premenstrual syndrome?

No clear link was found between magnesium levels and PMS overall. Studies outside the United States found lower magnesium during the luteal phase in women with PMS, but the practical significance is unclear.

Moderate study design Studies of women with and without premenstrual syndrome measuring blood magnesium

What they did

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 observational studies (from 196 identified) examining magnesium levels and PMS, searching medical databases through January 2019.

What they found

No significant association between serum magnesium and PMS in the overall analysis. In studies conducted outside the US, serum magnesium was lower in the luteal phase in women with PMS. Heterogeneity between studies suggests results should be interpreted cautiously.

What it means for you

Magnesium levels do not appear to be a major PMS factor in most populations. Findings may vary by region or measurement methods. Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm whether magnesium treatment helps PMS.

13

studies included of 196

-0.04

mean magnesium difference overall

-0.37

mean difference in non-US studies

About the study

Original title
The Association Between Serum Magnesium and Premenstrual Syndrome: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors
Moslehi M, Arab A, Shadnoush M et al.
Journal
Biological trace element research
Year
2019
Study design
Systematic review
What was tested
None, observational studies

Topics