Magnesium is one of the minerals we need in the greatest amounts, as it is incorporated into bones and involved in several hundred enzymatic processes that are essential for overall mental and physical health. Magnesium deficiency is very widespread, and because it cannot be detected using standard blood tests, the problem often goes unnoticed. This is highlighted in a review article in which researchers refer to studies showing that magnesium supplementation may be relevant for depression, insomnia, neuropathy, migraine, diabetes, high blood pressure, and several other conditions.

An estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide are deficient in vitamin B1, which is primarily caused by an unbalanced diet, excessive consumption of coffee or tea, various medications, environmental toxins, and genetic defects. The same applies to high alcohol intake, where long-term abuse can lead to life-threatening brain inflammation. Evidence suggests that higher doses of vitamin B1 in supplement form may have a beneficial effect on many symptoms and diseases.

Stroke remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Acute kidney injury is also a common complication that increases the risk of prolonged hospitalization and death. Previous studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of stroke, and it also appears that vitamin D deficiency raises the risk of acute kidney injury and early death following a stroke. This is highlighted in a new study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition and a frequent but underreported cause of death. The condition is caused by a dysregulated immune response to an infection, which can lead to hyperinflammation and organ failure. Diet, lifestyle, and aging processes play a major role in the risk of developing the disease. Previous studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is a common risk factor. According to a new Chinese study, it appears that vitamin B1 deficiency also increases the risk of developing sepsis. Vitamin B1 deficiency is primarily caused by a refined diet, overconsumption of alcohol, excessive coffee intake, antacids and diuretic medications, as well as genetic defects.

Infertility due to poor sperm quality in men is an increasing problem. Although there may be several causes, it appears that widespread selenium deficiency is a significant factor. A lack of selenium can lead to hormonal imbalances, changes in the structure of sperm cells, and make them more vulnerable to damage caused by oxidative stress.

PCOS, also known as polycystic ovary syndrome, is one of the most common hormonal disorders and can lead to infertility, male-pattern hair growth, weight gain, impaired blood sugar regulation, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. Evidence suggests that higher blood levels of vitamin D reduce the risk of developing PCOS. This is shown in a large population-based study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, in which the authors also examine the role of vitamin D in hormonal balance, blood sugar regulation, circulation, and fertility.

A placebo-controlled study published in Nutrition shows that magnesium supplementation can improve memory, reaction time, other cognitive skills, and heart rhythm during sleep.

Around three billion people worldwide are now deficient in vitamin B12, primarily due to plant-based dietary patterns, medication use, and aging processes. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, impaired concentration, infections, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disease, reduced fertility, nerve damage, and dementia, among other conditions. Because it can take several months for a deficiency to manifest after dietary changes toward plant-based eating - and because neurological symptoms may occur without the presence of anemia - many people fail to recognize the connection. There is also evidence that vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with a higher risk of hospitalization, complications, and premature death, which calls for immediate action by health authorities. This was shown in a large Brazilian population study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

Zinc deficiency is widespread, and a refined or plant-based diet increases the risk. The widespread zinc deficiency appears to contribute to the growing number of children who develop asthma and hay fever. In addition, zinc deficiency may be an overlooked factor that reduces the effectiveness of medical treatment, as shown in a review article published in Nutrients. According to the researchers, zinc plays a crucial role in maintaining strong mucous membranes, supporting immune function, and regulating inflammation. For this reason, zinc supplementation may represent a new, safe, and inexpensive complementary approach in the management of asthma and hay fever.

According to a large Chinese study of older adults, people who eat meat and fish have a greater chance of living to the age of 100. This surprised the researchers, who had previously assumed that a plant-based diet protects against chronic disease and premature death. They also found that older adults need considerably more protein to maintain muscle mass, as age-related muscle loss can lead to sarcopenia, reduced quality of life, and early death. One important thing to consider, is that meat contains specific amino acids needed for building muscle tissue. Meat, fish, and eggs also contain vitamin B12, iron, iodine, selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are difficult or impossible to obtain in sufficient amounts from a strictly plant-based diet. For older adults and many others, the optimal approach is therefore a varied diet based on high-quality animal and plant foods.

Selenium, a key component of several selenoproteins and antioxidants, plays a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism, overall metabolism, and protection against damage caused by oxidative stress. Because of this, selenium helps delay muscle fatigue during athletic performance, reduce muscle loss, and prevent premature aging of muscles. This is highlighted in a review article published in Nutrients, where researchers summarized the latest findings on the role of different selenium compounds in muscles and optimal sports nutrition.