Magnesium is a major mineral essential to all living organisms.  It is probably the most overlooked and underused mineral.  Magnesium is the 4th most abundant mineral in our body.  It is necessary for the proper use of calcium, phosphorous, potassium, and sodium in our body, along with vitamin D, copper, and zinc.  Magnesium is also responsible for activating nearly 350 enzymes in our body, affecting chronic, depression, bone formation, hormone fluctuations, asthma, and blood pressure.  Magnesium is important in terms of regulating blood sugar levels and sustaining a regular heart beat.

Magnesium is required for the production and transfer of energy for protein synthesis, for contractility of muscle and excitability of nerves, and as a cofactor in a myriad of enzyme systems.  Magnesium protects the arterial linings from stress caused by sudden blood pressure changes, plays a role in the formation of bone, and in carbohydrate and mineral metabolism.  Research has shown the magnesium may help prevent cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, certain forms of cancer, and reduce cholesterol levels.  It can reduce the severity of migraine headaches and may help in reducing the rate of reoccurence.

Roughly 50% of our body’s total magnesium is stored in our bones, while the remaining part is predominantly found in the cells of body tissues and organs.  Only 1% of magnesium is available in the blood, although the human body is very good at regulating a constant level of magnesium in the blood.  There is a direct relationship between magnesium, calcium, and phosphorous; as the amount of one decreases, the other two minerals will increase.  It’s very important that the body has an adequate supply of these minerals (as well as other minerals)  to maintain an equilibium.

It has been estimated that up to 80% of the population is deficient in magnesium.