What is Magnesium? Magnesium is a vital mineral that is essential for many functions in the human body. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, maintaining healthy bones, and supporting the immune system. Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, and it is required for more than 300 biochemical reactions.
How does the body use it?
Magnesium is required for many important processes in the body, including:
- Energy production: Magnesium is involved in the production of ATP, which is the main source of energy in the body.
- Bone health: Magnesium is essential for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones.
- Heart health: Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
- Muscle function: Magnesium is necessary for proper muscle function, including the relaxation and contraction of muscles.
Symptoms of over and lack of it in the body
A deficiency in magnesium can cause a variety of symptoms, including muscle weakness, tremors, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue. Severe magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures, heart disease, and other health problems. However, magnesium toxicity is rare and typically only occurs in people with kidney disease who take too much magnesium supplements.
In what food can you find it?
Magnesium is found in many different types of food, including leafy green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Some of the best sources of magnesium include spinach, almonds, avocados, black beans, and pumpkin seeds. It is important to note that many processed and refined foods, such as white bread and pasta, are low in magnesium.