Magnsium (Symbol Mg, Latin magne'siiA light and sllvery metallic element-Magnesium salts are required for human metabolism. Magnesium is a necessary component of many enzymes. Enzymes invovled in oxidative phosphorylation require magnesium as a cofactor. Cocarboxylase and coenzyme A are found in the mitochondrion of cells. Mitochondrion are organelles of the cell that funtion in energy production. Without magnesium, the enzymes cannot function properly and therefore, energy production is hindered.

RDA of magnesium

The RDA for magnesium is approximately 350 mg. Fortunately, the average western diet delivers around 300 mg, which is usually sufficient to maintain reserves. Magnesium is found in the bones, which may act as a reserve. Magnesium is also found in tissues where is it utilised. Magnesium uptake in the intestine is increased like vitamin D. Remember that vitamin D is required for proper calcium uptake as well.

Deficiency and toxicity of magnesium

Deficiency of magnesium causes irritability of the nervous system, manifested by tetany (spasms), convulsions (fits), tremors, arrythmias (variation from the normal heart rate), paraesthesiae (abnormal sensations). Other documented effects are vasodilation of blood vessels, muscular weakness, depression and psychotic behaviour. Magnesium deficiency can be caused by severe diarrhoea, diabetic ketoacidosis, chronic alcohol abuse, starvation, and eating foods low in magnesium. Chronic diarrhoea causes losses of magnesium through the faeces. Prolonged or chronic vomiting can also cause loss of magnesium and other electrolytes. Replacement therapy is usually sufficient to correct the deficiency. However, clinical diagnosis of plasma magnesium irregularities is the safest recommended route. Magnesium overdose is usually accidental through anticid abuse (ie., magnesium hydroxide) and through illness. Disease of the kidney can result in cessation of magnesium excretion via the urine, with a subsequent accumulation in the body.