| |
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that functions as a coenzyme (part of ~100
enzymes) for nerve/muscle function, regulation of body temperature,
energy metabolism, DNA/RNA synthesis, and the formation of bones.
Magnesium plays important roles in the structure and the function of
the human body. The adult human body contains about 25 grams of
magnesium. Over 60% of all the magnesium in the body is found in the
skeleton, about 27% is found in muscle, while 6 to 7% is found in
other cells, and less than 1% is found outside of cells Food sources
include artichokes, nuts, beans, whole grains and shellfish.
Because magnesium is needed as a co-factor for several enzymes to
help convert carbohydrates, protein, and fat into energy, magnesium
supplements may play a role in energy metabolism. Due to the role of
magnesium in conducting nerve impulses, supplements have been
promoted for support of heart function. Magnesium’s role in bone
health stems from its primary location in bone tissue and its
ability to help increase calcium absorption.
The scientific support for magnesium as an adjunct to calcium
supplements is fairly well-founded. Magnesium can help improve
calcium absorption and may help maintain bone density in those
individuals at risk for excessive bone loss. A few studies have
suggested a potential role for magnesium supplements in energy
metabolism by showing an increased exercise efficiency in endurance
athletes. Several studies have found that elderly people have
relatively low dietary intakes of magnesium. Because intestinal
magnesium absorption tends to decrease and urinary magnesium
excretion tends to increase in older individuals, suboptimal dietary
magnesium intake may increase the risk of magnesium depletion in the
elderly.
Learn More
 |
|
Research Studies
 |
