Magnesium and Crohn's Disease: Exploring the Connection

Crohn̵7;s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms. While the condition can trigger poor magnesium absorption, its underlying causes appear to stem from immune system malfunction and inherited genetic factors.

Magnesium

• Magnesium is a common mineral with an important role in more than 300 human biochemical processes, according to the National Institute of Health̵7;s Office of Dietary Supplements. Human bodies absorb dietary magnesium in the small intestine.

Magnesium Deficiency

• The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that the presence of Crohn̵7;s disease can significantly impair normal magnesium absorption. In some cases, impaired uptake can lead to clinical magnesium deficiencies.

Causes

• Doctors once believed that dietary factors and stress caused Crohn̵7;s disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. While the exact cause is still unknown, evidence now points toward factors including heredity and abnormal immune response as the disease̵7;s underlying triggers.

Autoimmune Reactions

• Cases of Crohn̵7;s disease may develop in part from an autoimmune reaction to common bacteria present in the intestine, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Heredity

• Individuals with Crohn̵7;s disease frequently have mutations of a gene called NOD2, notes the Mayo Clinic. Medline Plus notes that individuals of Jewish ancestry may also have a heightened risk of developing the disease.