Balchem partners with Virginia Tech to study the impact of minerals on human health

The collaboration will review the most up-to-date, scientifically backed information on the relationship between various minerals and human health. The first mineral to be subjected to review will be magnesium. The review is slated to be published later in 2024. The initiative, led by Stella Volpe, PhD, RDN, ACSM-CEP, FACSM, the current head of the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise (HNFE) at Virginia Tech, will also identify open research questions in the field to help guide and inform researchers and clinicians. “The project plays an important role in the future of nutrition, because it aims to provide a credible and comprehensive overview of the current state of scientific research on minerals and human health to clinicians and researchers,” Dr. Volpe said. ‘Necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions’ The National Institutes of Health (NIH) lists magnesium as being necessary for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, from helping maintain normal muscle and nerve function, to keeping heart rhythm steady, supporting a healthy immune system, and keeping bones strong. The mineral is also needed for blood sugar management and healthy blood pressure. However, 70% to 80% of the U.S. population is reported to not be meeting the recommended intakes of magnesium. “We are proud to support Virginia Tech on this project because we truly believe it will help the scientific community reach a deeper understanding of minerals in human health,” said Eric Ciappio, PhD, RD, strategic development manager of nutrition science at Balchem. “We see this collaboration as a testament to our commitment to supporting independent research, which we will also leverage to continue to develop effective, innovative ingredients that can benefit consumers globally.”