magnesium

I. Introduction

Magnesium is an essential mineral for the functioning of the human body. It plays an important role in muscle, nerve and bone function, blood sugar levels and energy production. In this article, we'll look at the importance of magnesium to health, its key functions, sources, and magnesium needs. Read on to find out why magnesium is so important to us.

Importance of magnesium for the human body

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the human body. It has a variety of functions, including supporting the nervous system, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting bone growth. It is important for normal muscle contraction, metabolism and energy production. Magnesium levels in the body are regulated by eating foods that contain salts, minerals and amino acids containing magnesium. The specific functions of magnesium include, among others

• Supporting the enzyme system: Magnesium is an important component of various enzymes that are necessary for bodily functions.
• Regulating Blood Sugar Levels: Magnesium plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels and the efficient absorption of glucose into muscle cells.
• Muscle Contraction: Magnesium is important for muscle contraction and relaxation.
• Blood Pressure Regulation: Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure by participating in vasodilatation.
• Energy production: Magnesium is an important component of energy production in the human body.
• Bone Health: Magnesium is an important component of bone structure and contributes to the maintenance of bone structure and bone mineral density.
• Immunity: Magnesium also supports the immune system . It helps improve the body's immune functions and prevent disease.

Important functions and benefits of magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions. It is involved in more than 300 biochemical processes, including nervous system function, muscle contraction, blood pressure regulation and protein production. In addition, magnesium is important for maintaining a healthy bone and immune system.

In addition to supporting normal physiological bodily functions, magnesium offers a number of other health benefits. It contributes to normal mental function and has a positive impact on energy metabolism, which is normally responsible for the body's energy level. In addition, magnesium supports the normal function of the electrolyte balance and helps protect cells from oxidative damage.

Important functions and benefits of magnesium

• Supporting normal physiological bodily functions
• Supporting normal psychological functions
• Support of normal energy metabolism
• Electrolyte balance support
• Supporting cell protection against oxidative damage

Magnesium deficiency and its symptoms

Magnesium deficiency is an often underestimated health disorder that can lead to various symptoms. are signs of a magnesium deficiency

• fatigue
• irritability
• cardiac arrhythmias
• muscle cramps
• stomach pain
• Headache
• Reduction in physical performance
• Decreased bone density

A magnesium deficiency can also lead to an increase in blood sugar levels, increased sensitivity to stress and impaired regulatory ability of the immune system. A magnesium deficiency can also lead to decreased production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters involved in controlling emotions and behavior. Therefore, a magnesium deficiency can also lead to psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression and ADHD.

II. Functions of Magnesium

Magnesium is a vital mineral that is vital to the functioning of the body. It is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, blood pressure regulation, energy production and nervous system function.

Magnesium is also important for maintaining normal muscle tone, strength and function. It is also important for the functioning of the immune system and for maintaining normal psychological function.

Some of its functions in the body are

• Supporting normal energy production
• maintaining normal muscle tone
• Supporting the normal functioning of the nervous system
• Supporting normal mental function
• Contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system
• contributes to normal protein and citrate metabolism
• Supports cell division

Magnesium as a vital mineral

Magnesium is an essential mineral that is essential for many different functions in our body. It plays an important role in many biochemical processes in the body and contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscle tissue and immune system. Magnesium is also needed for the normal structure and function of bones, maintenance of teeth and regulation of blood pressure.

Without adequate magnesium intake, various symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches and irritability occur. For this reason, it is important to get enough magnesium from food.

The average adult needs around 375-420 mg of magnesium per day, while children and adolescents have higher needs. Because magnesium needs vary by age and gender, meeting these needs is important to promoting overall health.

Foods rich in magnesium:

• Whole grains like whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, oats, wild rice, and wheat
• nuts and seeds
• Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, turnip greens, peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes
• legumes and beans
• Fish such as salmon, tuna, and other high-fat fish
• Bananas, avocados and dried fruits
• dairy products and yogurt
• citrus fruits and melons

Importance of magnesium for the function of muscles and nerves

Magnesium is an essential mineral for muscles and nerves. It plays an important role in contracting and relaxing muscles. It helps muscles recover faster and protects them from injury.

Magnesium also contributes to the healthy functioning of the nervous system. It allows nerves to send and receive signals more efficiently, which in turn improves cognitive performance. A magnesium deficiency can lead to premature fatigue, restlessness and even anxiety.

Magnesium also supports the immune system by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. It also helps the body synthesize proteins and DNA, which in turn speeds up the healing process after injury.

Magnesium is therefore an indispensable element to effectively support the function of muscles and nerves. A deficiency can have serious consequences for both our health and our performance. It is therefore important to regularly consume sufficient magnesium in the form of dietary supplements or natural foods.

Magnesium for healthy bones and teeth

The importance of magnesium for healthy bones and teeth cannot be overstated. It plays an important role in the development and growth of bones and teeth. In conjunction with vitamin D , it supports bone formation and mineralization, resulting in stronger and more durable bones.

Studies have shown that a magnesium deficiency can reduce bone density and increase the risk of fractures. A 2008 study showed that the risk of suffering an osteoporosis-related fracture was three times higher in people with low magnesium levels.

Magnesium is also important for the formation and health of teeth. It plays an important role in the formation of hard tooth tissue and supports the storage of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus in the teeth. A lack of magnesium can lead to reduced mineralization of the teeth, which in turn can result in poorer tooth structure and higher caries rates. An increased supply of magnesium is therefore important in order to maintain and build up the tooth structure.

It is important to get enough magnesium to support the development and health of bones and teeth. The US Institute of Medicine recommends that adults should consume at least 310 to 420 mg of magnesium per day.

Magnesium as a regulator of blood sugar levels and insulin production

Magnesium plays an important role as a regulator of blood sugar levels and insulin production. A magnesium deficiency is associated with increased blood sugar levels and decreased insulin production. Magnesium can support insulin action and lower blood sugar levels.

Magnesium's insulin action is aided by its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Magnesium acts as a messenger that stimulates the muscle and fat cells to absorb more glucose. It also allows the body to absorb more sugar from food. This allows insulin production to be regulated so that the body no longer needs insulin to keep blood sugar levels constant.

Magnesium can also increase the body's sensitivity to insulin by reducing the inhibitory effect of insulin receptors on cells. This allows more glucose, especially processed sugar, to be absorbed, which in turn lowers blood glucose levels.

Magnesium can also reduce insulin resistance by supporting insulin production and improving the body's ability to take up and process glucose.

It is recommended that you consume at least 400mg of magnesium per day to support insulin action and blood sugar regulation. Magnesium can be obtained from a variety of sources, including vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and nuts.

Magnesium as an important factor in energy metabolism

Magnesium is an essential trace element and plays an important role in energy metabolism and cell function. Magnesium is an essential part of the energy cycle that supplies the body with energy . It plays a crucial role in converting carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy and is involved in numerous enzymatic processes.

Magnesium is an important component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary fuel in the human body. ATP is produced when carbohydrates, fats and proteins are burned and is used to generate energy. Without ATP, the release of energy in the cells and the functioning of the organs is not possible. Therefore, the availability of magnesium is essential for energy production.

Magnesium deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies. It is believed that around 50% of the population is magnesium deficient. Magnesium deficiency leads to tiredness, lack of concentration, stress and tension.

Magnesium can be ingested in a variety of ways, including dietary supplements, magnesium supplements, and natural sources. In order to cover the daily magnesium requirement, the following foods should be on the menu regularly:

• Whole grains like oats, rye and barley
• Nuts and seeds such as almonds, pumpkin seeds and sesame
• Legumes such as beans, peas, lentils
• Vegetables like spinach, broccoli and avocado
• Fish and seafood such as salmon, sardines and shrimp
• Dried fruits like dates, figs and apricots

Importance of magnesium for the regulation of blood pressure and heart function

Magnesium plays an important role in regulating blood pressure and heart function. Studies have shown that high levels of magnesium in the blood reduce the risk of high blood pressure and other heart diseases. Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for a number of important functions in the body, including the regulation of blood pressure and heart rhythm.

Magnesium is believed to play a role in regulating blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the production of adrenaline, a hormone that can raise blood pressure. Magnesium may also indirectly regulate blood pressure by reducing inflammatory responses in the body that can increase blood pressure.

Magnesium may also play an important role in heart function. Magnesium affects the regulation of heartbeat and heart contraction, which can help improve heart function. Studies have shown that taking magnesium can reduce the chance of developing coronary artery disease. Magnesium can also help relieve the symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias.

Magnesium can be obtained from a variety of sources including fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains and dairy products. There are also various magnesium supplements available in pharmacies. However, if you're looking to take a supplement, you should speak to your doctor first to make sure you're getting the right dosage.

Magnesium to prevent migraines

Migraine is a neurological condition that can cause severe headaches and other symptoms. Migraines are common and can affect many people. It has been suggested that magnesium deficiency may be a factor in migraines, as low magnesium levels can increase headaches and lead to migraine attacks. Studies have shown that taking magnesium can help prevent migraines.

A study with 308 participants concluded that magnesium can be used as a preventive therapy in migraine sufferers to reduce the number of attacks. Participants received either a dummy drug (placebo) or oral magnesium. After 12 weeks, it was shown that the participants who received magnesium had significantly fewer migraine attacks than those who received the placebo.

Another study from 2013 with more than 270 participants came to similar conclusions. Some of the participants received magnesium, the other a placebo. After 12 weeks, the participants who received magnesium were shown to have significantly fewer migraine attacks than those who received the placebo.

There are several magnesium supplements that can help prevent migraine attacks. Although many people benefit from magnesium, it is important that anyone suffering from migraines consult a doctor before taking any supplement.

III. Sources of Magnesium

Magnesium can come from a variety of sources, including food, beverages, medications, and dietary supplements.

Food sources of magnesium are

• Legumes, especially beans and lentils
• nuts
• whole grains
• Dairy products
• Vegetables
• Cereals, especially roasted barley and oats
• Healthy fats like avocado and olive oil

Magnesium suppliers are from drinks

• Green tea
• cocoa
• soy milk
• Coffee

Medicines and dietary supplements containing magnesium are available in pharmacies and drugstores.

Foods rich in magnesium

Magnesium is an essential nutrient needed for various functions in the body. It is involved in energy production, helps in cell division and is involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels. In Germany, many adults and children consume less magnesium than recommended. That is why it is important to pay attention to the diet in order to cover the daily magnesium requirement.

There are a variety of foods that are rich in magnesium. This includes some animal and plant products. Examples are nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, beans, fish, meat, and eggs. To complete the list of foods rich in magnesium, we have listed some important foods:

• Nuts - Almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, walnuts, pistachios and peanuts.
• Seeds - Flaxseeds, chia seeds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds
• Whole Grains - Whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice and whole grain cereals
• Legumes - lentils, peas, beans, chickpeas
• Fish - mackerel, halibut, herring, salmon, tuna
• Meat - Beef, Poultry, Lamb and Venison
• Eggs - chicken, duck and eel eggs

Importance of bioavailability and processing

The bioavailability and utilization of magnesium plays a crucial role in promoting and maintaining healthy bodily functions. Magnesium is an essential nutrient that is essential for a variety of bodily functions. Bioavailability plays a crucial role in supplying the body with magnesium. Bioavailability means that the body can efficiently use and process the magnesium ingested.

The bioavailability of magnesium depends on the type of magnesium compound ingested (e.g. magnesium oxide or magnesium citrate) and the form of intake (e.g. food or dietary supplement). In addition, dietary magnesium intake, the type of food, and the type of magnesium compound affect the amount of magnesium that can be absorbed and processed by the body. To ensure sufficient bioavailability, the magnesium intake should come from a combination of different sources that contain different magnesium compounds. In this way it can be ensured that the body has the largest possible number of available magnesium compounds.

Another important topic is the processing of magnesium in the body. In order for magnesium to be able to fulfill its functions, it must be absorbed via the digestive tract, transported to the cells via the bloodstream and incorporated there. This process of magnesium processing is very complex and depends on many factors, including the amount of magnesium ingested, age, genetics and the health of the body. Therefore, it is important that there is enough magnesium in the body to perform the necessary functions.

Dietary supplement with magnesium

Magnesium supplements are a popular way to meet or supplement magnesium needs. Magnesium is an essential mineral required for numerous bodily functions such as muscle contraction, protein synthesis, bone formation and energy metabolism. Some people, particularly the elderly, vegetarians and vegans, may have an increased need for magnesium and supplement their diet with supplements containing magnesium to meet these needs.

The effect of magnesium-containing dietary supplements depends on the type of magnesium compound that is best absorbed by the body. Magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium citrate are the most common forms of magnesium found in dietary supplements. Magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide are best absorbed by the body. It is important to note that magnesium supplements should be the sole source of magnesium, as excessive magnesium intake can lead to magnesium overload and magnesium toxicity.

Dietary supplements containing magnesium can help to meet the daily magnesium requirement. It is recommended that adults consume 400-420 mg of magnesium daily. Therefore, magnesium supplements can be a safe and effective way to get magnesium and meet your daily needs.

IV. Magnesium requirements

The magnesium requirement of an adult is about 300 to 420 mg per day, depending on gender and age. Men need more magnesium than women. The need for magnesium increases during pregnancy and lactation.

The European Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012 on health claims made about food (Health Claims Regulation, HCR) stipulates the following recommended daily allowances (RDA) for magnesium:

• Adults: 375 mg
• Pregnant and lactating women: 400 mg
• Children: 80-130 mg

Individuals with certain medical conditions, including diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain kidney diseases, may have increased magnesium needs because their bodies may be excreting more magnesium than normal. These people should therefore consult a doctor and monitor their magnesium intake.

Recommended magnesium intake depending on age and gender

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and gender. It is important to adhere to the following guidelines to maintain good health and ensure adequate magnesium intake.

For children aged 1-3 years, the European Community recommends a daily magnesium intake of 80 mg. For children between 4 and 6 years it should be 120 mg, for children between 7 and 10 years 160 mg and for adolescents between 11 and 18 years 210 mg per day.

For adults aged 19 and over, the European Union recommends a daily magnesium intake of 300 mg for men and 270 mg for women. An increased magnesium intake of 350-400 mg per day is recommended for pregnant women. A magnesium intake of 310-360 mg per day is recommended for breastfeeding women.

For people over the age of 70, the European Union recommends a daily magnesium intake of 300 mg for men and 270 mg for women.

The following table shows the recommended magnesium intake depending on age and gender:

		Men	Women
	1-3 years	80 mg	80 mg
	4-6 years	120 mg	120 mg
	7-10 years	160 mg	160 mg
	11-18 years	210 mg	210 mg
	19-70 years	300 mg	270 mg
	70 years	300 mg	270 mg
pregnant women		350-400 mg
breastfeeding		310-360 mg

Increased magnesium requirements in certain diseases

Some diseases have an increased need for magnesium. These include chronic diseases such as epilepsy, diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. As a result of these diseases, there can be increased muscle tension and thus a reduction in the magnesium level in the body.

An increased need for magnesium can also be observed in the following cases:

• Long-lasting stressful situations: In long-lasting stressful situations, the need for magnesium can increase because stress hormones remove magnesium from the body more quickly.
• Serious illnesses and surgeries: Serious illnesses and surgeries can impair bodily functions and increase magnesium requirements.
• Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can lower magnesium levels in the body because it impedes the absorption of magnesium in the body.
• Thyroid disorders: People with thyroid disorders have an increased need for magnesium because thyroid function interferes with the absorption of magnesium in the body.
• Dependence on Diuretics: Dependence on diuretics can increase magnesium requirements as they increase magnesium excretion from the body.
• Vegetarian diet: A vegetarian diet can increase magnesium requirements, since animal products are an important source of magnesium.

Symptoms and risks of magnesium excess

Too much magnesium can lead to unwanted symptoms and risks. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle tremors and cramps. In more severe cases, too much magnesium can lead to kidney failure, decreased heart function, and slowed breathing. It's important to realize that high levels of magnesium can be a risk factor for developing heart disease and stroke.

Also, some medications can cause magnesium overload. These drugs can block the absorption of magnesium from food, increase blood levels of magnesium and promote certain kidney diseases. It has also been reported that excessive doses of antibiotics can increase the risk of magnesium excess.

Other symptoms and risks of magnesium excess are

• cardiac arrhythmias
• constipation
• drop in blood pressure
• bleeding in the skin
• low calcium level
• weakness and fatigue
• decreased kidney function

Excess magnesium is a serious condition and can lead to serious health problems. It is therefore important to balance magnesium levels in the body through a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.

V. Conclusion

The importance of magnesium for the human body is complex and varied. It is an essential mineral needed for many important functions in the body, particularly muscle contraction and relaxation, nervous system function, and blood pressure. Since the body cannot produce magnesium itself, it must be obtained from food or supplements.

In order to ensure an adequate supply of magnesium, adults should consume 300 to 400 mg of magnesium daily. A higher requirement may be required when certain medical conditions are present or certain medications are being taken.

The best source of magnesium is food. Foods rich in magnesium include whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, green vegetables, bananas, fish and chocolate. A balanced, varied diet is the best way to ensure an adequate supply of magnesium.

Conclusion on the importance of magnesium for health

It is evident that magnesium plays an important role in human health. It is involved in regulating many biochemical reactions vital to the body. A magnesium deficiency has serious consequences and can lead to a variety of diseases. Whether it's neurological disorders, muscle pain, cardiovascular disease, or metabolic issues, magnesium is responsible for keeping our bodies functioning. That's why it's important to get enough magnesium from the right foods and to keep a healthy balance.

Recommendations for covering the daily magnesium requirement

The daily magnesium requirement of an adult is 300-400 mg. In order to get this recommended amount of magnesium, one should try to get as much magnesium as possible from natural sources. In principle, almost any healthy food can serve as a source of magnesium. The best sources are green leafy vegetables (such as spinach and kale), nuts and seeds, whole grains, beans, black beans, tofu, avocados, and other fruits and vegetables. Some refined products also contain some magnesium, although they are less nutritious than the natural sources mentioned above. Refined foods that contain magnesium include grain products like wheat and rye, potatoes, and sugar cane (especially dark cane sugar). The easiest way, however, is to cover the daily magnesium requirement by regularly taking food supplements: for example magnesium-containing vitamin B complexes or magnesium powder in the form of capsules or tablets . You should also try to do moderate endurance sports as often as possible - but it is even better to end the day with a relaxing bath in magnesium-rich seawater or in hot springs!

Frequently asked questions about magnesium

What are the symptoms of magnesium deficiency?

A magnesium deficiency can manifest itself through various symptoms such as muscle cramps, tremors, nervousness, irritability, sleep disorders, headaches, cardiac arrhythmias and high blood pressure.

Which foods contain a lot of magnesium?

Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, legumes, whole grains, green vegetables, bananas, avocados, and dark chocolate.

How can I meet my magnesium needs if I eat vegan?

Vegans can meet their magnesium needs through a balanced diet rich in nuts, legumes, whole grains, green vegetables, bananas, avocados and dark chocolate. Eating fortified foods or supplements can also help.

How do I recognize a magnesium deficiency?

A magnesium deficiency can be detected by a blood test. Symptoms such as muscle cramps, tremors, nervousness, irritability, sleep disorders, headaches, cardiac arrhythmia and high blood pressure can also indicate a magnesium deficiency.

What interactions can there be when taking magnesium supplements?

Magnesium can affect the way some medications work, such as antibiotics, bisphosphonates, antihypertensives, insulin, and muscle relaxants. It's important to talk to a doctor before taking magnesium supplements to avoid possible interactions.

How Much Magnesium is Safe and Effective?

The recommended daily dose of magnesium for adults is 300-400 mg. The requirement may be lower in children and adolescents. However, an overdose of magnesium can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Can Magnesium Overdose Be Dangerous?

Yes, magnesium overdose can be dangerous, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, muscle weakness and even cardiac arrest. It is important not to exceed the recommended daily dose.

How long does it take for a magnesium deficiency to correct itself?

How long it takes for a magnesium deficiency to compensate depends on the severity of the deficiency. Adequate magnesium intake can help relieve symptoms within a few days, but it may take longer in severe cases. It is important to see a doctor if you suspect a magnesium deficiency.