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TITLE:
Drinking water hardness and chronic degenerative diseases.
II. Cardiovascular diseases
AUTHORS: Monarca S, Zerbini I, Simonati C, Gelatti U.
SOURCE: Ann Ig. 2003 Jan-Feb;15(1):41-56.
ABSTRACT: Since the 1950s a causal relation between water hardness
and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in humans has been hypothesized.
In order to evaluate the influence of calcium and magnesium, the
minerals responsible for the hardness of drinking water, on human health, a review of all
the articles published on the subject from 1980 up to today has been carried out.
Many but not all geographic correlation studies showed an inverse
association between water hardness and mortality for CVD.
Most case-control and one cohort studies showed an inverse
relation, statistically significant, between mortality from CVD and water levels of
magnesium, but not calcium.
Consumption of water containing high concentrations of magnesium
seems to reduce of about 30-35% the mortality for CVD, but not the incidence.
This inverse association is supported by clinical and experimental
findings and is biologically plausible and in line with Hill's criteria for a cause-effect
relationship.
The information provided is intended for informational purposes only. It
is not meant to either directly or indirectly give medical advice or prescribe treatment.
Unless specifically referenced, the information has not been scientifically validated or
approved by any government or regulatory agency. Please consult your physician or other
licensed health care professional for medical diagnosis, prescription, and treatment. |