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Dimagnesium Malate

Also known as: Dimagnesium Malate, DMM, Di-magnesium Malate, Magnesium Malate

Overview

Dimagnesium malate (DMM) is a compound formed from magnesium and malic acid, synthesized for use as a supplement or food additive. It is used as a source of magnesium in dietary supplements, foods, and foods for special medical purposes. DMM provides both magnesium and malic acid, potentially supporting energy metabolism and muscle function. Research on DMM specifically is limited, with most studies focusing on general magnesium supplementation. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has noted insufficient evidence to fully assess the safety and bioavailability of DMM compared to other magnesium sources. Therefore, its benefits are largely extrapolated from the broader research on magnesium.

Benefits

Magnesium supplementation, in general, has demonstrated several benefits. Meta-analyses show that magnesium can reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and increase nitric oxide (NO) levels. Some studies suggest it may improve insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome or hypomagnesemia. Benefits are most pronounced in those with low magnesium status or inflammatory conditions. Effect sizes for inflammation are moderate, with CRP reductions of approximately 0.5–1.0 mg/L observed in some studies. Improvements are typically seen within 8–12 weeks of supplementation. However, these benefits are based on magnesium supplementation in general, not specifically on dimagnesium malate.

How it works

Magnesium acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymatic reactions, including those involved in energy production, muscle contraction, and nerve function. Malic acid is involved in the Krebs cycle, supporting mitochondrial energy production. Together, they support cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and metabolic health. Magnesium influences ion channels and inflammatory pathways. However, there is limited data on the specific absorption and bioavailability of dimagnesium malate. EFSA has noted insufficient evidence to assess how DMM dissociates into magnesium and malic acid or how its bioavailability compares to other magnesium sources.

Side effects

Magnesium is generally safe at recommended doses, but specific safety data for dimagnesium malate as a novel food ingredient is limited. Common side effects, especially at high doses, include diarrhea and gastrointestinal discomfort. Less common side effects are nausea and abdominal cramping. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions. Magnesium may interact with certain antibiotics, diuretics, and medications for osteoporosis. It is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment. Caution is advised for individuals with kidney disease. It's important to adhere to recommended dosages to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose specifically for dimagnesium malate. For magnesium in general, typical minimum effective doses are 200–300 mg/day. Optimal dosage ranges are 200–400 mg elemental magnesium per day for most adults. The maximum safe dose from supplements is 350 mg/day, according to the US FDA. Higher doses may increase the risk of side effects. It can be taken with or without food, and splitting doses may reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Absorption may be influenced by dietary factors and individual health status. Adequate vitamin D status may support magnesium utilization.

FAQs

Is dimagnesium malate better than other forms of magnesium?

There is insufficient evidence to suggest that dimagnesium malate is superior to other magnesium forms. Bioavailability and safety data are limited, so it's not possible to determine if it has unique advantages.

When is the best time to take dimagnesium malate?

Dimagnesium malate can be taken at any time of day. Taking it with meals may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.

What are the expected benefits of taking dimagnesium malate?

Potential benefits include a reduction in inflammatory markers and improvements in mood and metabolic health, especially in individuals with low magnesium status. However, these are based on general magnesium supplementation.

Is dimagnesium malate safe?

Dimagnesium malate is generally considered safe, but there is limited specific data available. It's important to adhere to recommended dosages to minimize the risk of side effects.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7009340/ – This scientific opinion from EFSA concluded that there was insufficient evidence to assess the safety or bioavailability of dimagnesium malate as a novel food ingredient. The panel found no established difference between DMM and authorized magnesium malate, highlighting the need for more data from applicants to support its use.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35277037/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 RCTs (n=889) found that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP and increased NO levels. While the findings suggest anti-inflammatory benefits, the review included various forms of magnesium, not specifically dimagnesium malate.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/3/679 – This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs that showed magnesium supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP and increased NO levels. The descriptive findings also indicated reductions in other inflammatory markers, suggesting a potential role for magnesium in managing inflammation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1333261/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found a significant reduction in depression scores following magnesium supplementation. The study suggests that magnesium may have a beneficial effect on depressive symptoms, but it did not focus specifically on dimagnesium malate.
https://www.nmi.health/magnesium-a-review-of-clinical-use-and-efficacy/ – This review discusses the clinical use and efficacy of magnesium, covering its various roles in the body and potential health benefits. It provides a general overview of magnesium supplementation but does not focus specifically on dimagnesium malate.