Association of Dietary Magnesium Intake and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Narrative Review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

2 Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

3 Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

4 International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

5 Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

6 Depatment of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

7 Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BN1 9PH, UK

10.30476/ijns.2026.107735.1519

Abstract

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is the most common chronic liver disorder globally. It is closely linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome. Dietary factors and micronutrient status may influence its development and progression. Magnesium (Mg), an essential mineral involved in glucose and lipid metabolism, has been suggested as a potential modulator of NAFLD, although the evidence remains inconclusive. This narrative review aimed to summarize experimental, observational, and interventional studies published since 2000 that have explored the relationship between Mg intake and NAFLD.
Results: Preclinical studies indicated that Mg deficiency contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and hepatic lipid accumulation, while supplementation may reduce inflammation and fibrosis. Observational studies showed a negative association between Mg intake and NAFLD risk, although, findings vary among different populations. Randomized controlled trials were limited and demonstrated mixed results, with some revealing improvement in liver enzymes and lipid profile, while others illustrated no significant benefits.
Conclusion: While there is biological plausibility and initial data supporting a potential protective role of Mg in NAFLD, the current evidence did not establish a causal relationship. Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine whether Mg supplementation could be an effective preventive or therapeutic approach in NAFLD. 

Keywords

References

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