Sabinsa Corporation is poised to introduce a mineral product with superior bioavailability, Magnesium/ Potassium Aspartate (Mg/K aspartate). This product has two important mineral nutrients, magnesium and potassium molecularly bound to an amino acid, aspartic acid. Aspartic acid is a metabolic intermediate in several biochemical pathways in the body, including the tricarboxylic acid and urea cycles1. Aspartic acid salts are believed to be mineral transporters to the metabolizing cells, aiding in the metabolic process by replenishing vital electrolytes thereby contributing to efficient energy production. In addition, the aspartate moiety is reported to reduce oxygen consumption by the cells during the energy cycle.
Potassium and magnesium L-aspartate and DL-aspartate salts have been used clinically to treat fatigue in human subjects 2,3. Recent studies show that magnesium has cardioprotective properties, helps alleviate PMS symptoms and promotes bone and tooth integrity. It has been observed that people suffering from diabetes benefit from higher than normal levels of supplemental magnesium4. Recent research using sophisticated techniques such as NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy and magnesium-sensitive electrode revealed that magnesium deficiency accompanies conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and severe headache.
Potassium plays a vital role in the transmission of electrical impulses through the central nervous system and in the maintenance of electrolyte balance in the body. Potassium also helps regulate the heart rhythms, stabilize blood pressure levels and may help in the prevention of strokes5. Potassium deficiency is often triggered by the excessive use of diuretics and laxatives or junk food diets. This may result in growth retardation, muscle weakness, heart and kidney damage, mental confusion, and apathy. Extreme cases of deficiency can lead to dehydration, heart failure and even death. Mg/K Aspartate is valued in sports nutrition to improve long term athletic performance, particularly in untrained subjects. The proposed mechanisms of action include stabilization of cellular membranes by normalization of the levels of magnesium and potassium in the cells, detoxification of ammonia or increase in the tricarboxylic acid-cycle flux1.
- Bucci, L. (1993) Metabolic Intermediates. In "Nutrients as Ergogenic Aids for Sports and Exercise". CRC Press. 45-47
- Northwest Med (1961) 60:597
- Am. J. Med. Sci. (1962) 243:758
- Am. J. Hypert. 10: 368-370
- Circulation (1998) 98(12): 1198-204.
