High magnesium or potassium hair accumulation is not associated with ischemic stroke risk reduction: A pilot study

Objectives Various studies suggest that deficiency of magnesium and potassium may be associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke. However, single time-point serum measurements may not be suitable for assessing long-term tissue levels. Patients and methods We investigated Mg and K levels in hair of patients with acute ischemic stroke. The elements hair accumulation analysis might provide historical information on their concentrations over a longer period of time and probably reflects the corresponding nutritional condition. The concentrations of Mg and K in hair of 48 men with acute ischemic stroke and a control group were measured using spectroscopic methods. Results The mean Mg and K concentrations in hair of patients were significantly higher than in the controls. Conclusions This analysis does not seem to confirm the results of the previous studies suggesting that Mg or K high levels (or their diet supplementation) might protect humans against ischemic stroke.