Magnesium For Ovarian Cysts

Overview

In people assigned female at birth (AFAB), before menopause, , both ovaries produce numerous follicles containing the egg cells.Once a month, during ovulation, one of these follicles matures, gets dominant and ruptures to release the egg (ovum). If the egg is not released, the follicle can become what is called an ovarian cyst.¹ It has been accounted that nearly 20% of people AFAB develop these cysts during their reproductive age. The cysts are  often benign and can be resolved without any surgical innervation.¹ Having many of these cysts in your ovary is one of the three diagnostic criteria of the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and is observed in 1 in 5 people AFAB of reproductive age. The predisposing factors that lead to cyst formation are epigenetic and often environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and physical activity are involved. PCOS can cause further hormonal and metabolic dysregulation such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycle,, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and obesity.²  Androgens such as testosterone are essential sex hormones present in both people AFAB and AMAB. Usually people AFAB release much smaller amounts of androgens than people AMAB, however, in PCOS patients those levels are increased leading to delay in ovum maturation and release. Consequently, these ova stay in the ovary and can form  small cystic sacs.⁷ 

Ovarian cysts often remain undiagnosed due to their largely asymptomatic nature. However, in some cases, patients  may experience sharp or dull pain that is either constant or intermittent in nature and is felt in the pelvic or lower abdominal region. In severe scenarios, if the ovarian cyst ruptures patients may experience sharp pain along with nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. Owing to their asymptomatic nature, these cysts can only be diagnosed through a detailed physical examination and imaging supported by collecting a thorough gynecological and family history. Ovarian cysts hold a favorable recovery prognosis of 70% to 80% and have a low malignant potential in people AFAB inreproductive age.¹  

Due to the metabolic disturbances associated with PCOS, the concentrations of magnesium and other minerals such as zinc, selenium, and chromium might become suboptimal leading to potential further dysregulation in reproductive processes which increase the occurrence of ovarian cysts. Magnesium is one of the major micronutrients   that is involved in more than 300 vital processes of the body such as regulating the processing  of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins), neuromuscular transductions, and blood pressure regulation. As a result of the correlation between mineral deficits and the occurrence of ovarian cysts and PCOS, scientists are currently working on developing magnesium and other nutrient supplements.²

In this article, the role of magnesium, its relevance in the pathology and treatment of ovarian cysts, as well as recommended dosage, supplementation, adverse effects, and future potential are reviewed.

How does magnesium affect ovarian cysts

Magnesium is one of the molecules needed  for mediating glucose metabolism and regulating its levels in the body. It has been observed with a series of studies that there is a strong correlation between magnesium deficit and increase in insulin resistance. Due to insulin resistance the blood glucose concentrations are not lowered when necessary and the glucose uptake by muscles and fat tissue is hampered. Insulin resistance has been proven to be one of the main factors responsible for aggravating symptoms of PCOS inclusive of ovarian cysts.³ . Moreover,  there is much interplay between  magnesium and the levels of vitamin D and calcium in blood. Magnesium has an antagonistic effect on calcium and lowers its levels. On the other hand, vitamin D helps maintain balance in  blood calcium levels ., Magnesium affects  vitamin D by enhancing its mobility and activation in blood.⁴ Collectively, these complex dynamics of minerals and vitamins in the body ensure the regulation of insulin sensitivity and oxidative stress thus impacting  the follicular development, maturation and release during the menstrual cycle. Moreover, it has been observed that these metabolic disturbances have a strong correlation with higher body mass index in PCOS. ⁵

Which magnesium is best for ovarian cysts

Natural sources of magnesium include green leafy vegetables,  legumes, whole grains and natural or mineral water. These dietary sources if consumed in recommended amounts can boost the immune system and regulate glucose levels in blood. Apart from this, magnesium supplements are available such as aspartate, lactate, chloride and citrate. However, magnesium glycinate and bisglycinate are considered best in providing the necessary magnesium boost and are easily absorbed with least side effects to gut and the entire digestive tract.⁶ Moreover, epsom salt bath — a source of magnesium sulfate, provides a relief of muscle cramps caused by ovarian cysts.

How much magnesium should I take for ovarian cysts

The NHS recommends a daily consumption of 270 mg of magnesium per day for people AFAB. This includes magnesium from food and supplementation. If you take magnesium supplements ensure you consume less than 400 mg of the mineral per day to prevent unpleasant side effects. An utmost care has to be taken if you use vitamin D supplements, as in large doses it can increase magnesium elimination and lead to mineral imbalances within your body³ 

Side effects and other concerns

The upper limit for magnesium intake has been set to 350 mg per day for people AFAB aged above 14 years. This limit ensures  proper balance of magnesium and reduces adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension and confusion. Magnesium supplementation is not recommended for patients with heart block and kidney failure. It is recommended by practitioners and scientist that magnesium supplements are combined  with a balanced diet rich in other micronutrients such as selenium, chromium, calcium, potassium, manganese and vitamins such as vitamin D and folate, as well as regular exercise and sufficient sleep to reduce body mass index, improve insulin sensitivity and  support healthy ovarian cycle.³

Summary

Magnesium, despite being a simple mineral, plays a multifactorial role in the development of ovarian cysts. It not only targets the menstrual cycle and ovarian health but also aggravates the  symptoms of ovarian cysts by causing glucose imbalance, higher cholesterol levels and immune dysfunction collectively affecting reproductive health and leading to secondary symptoms such as acne and hair loss. Hence, a nutritional boost of a balanced diet together with physical activity and regular physical examination  is highly recommended to prevent ovarian cysts in premenopausal people AFAB.