Spectral analysis of electroencephalography data in athletes with low erythrocyte magnesium.

In a population of high level athletes (kayakists) we compared quantitative electroencephalography data in those with low erythrocyte (magnesium magnesium deficit) and those with normal magnesium (controls). Logistic regression showed that the relative power of the alpha frequency band in the occipital lead is the most discriminant (P < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation between low erythrocyte magnesium and alpha relative power (P < 0.05). An alteration of magnesium homeostasis could explain the occurrence of magnesium deficiency in athletes.