Magnesium is one of the most valuable bio-elements that plays a very important role in the body - it accounts for 0.1 - 0.47% of body weight (hence it belongs to the micronutrients). Magnesium is not only involved in photosynthesis, but also in important enzyme reactions. Magnesium ions are found in all body fluids - an important component of the cation pool, which plays a key role in the intracellular space. Magnesium deficiency in the body can result in serious health consequences (including palpitations, insomnia, concentration problems).
In the body of an adult, magnesium averages 24 - 35 g (this is almost 0.05 kg of body weight), of which:
- 60% is found in the bones,
- in skeletal muscles approximately 29%,
- in soft tissues (brain, heart and liver) approximately 10%,
- in intercellular fluids approximately 1%.
Magnesium absorption takes place in the small intestine, and the level of this important element in the body is subordinated to the functional state of the digestive system and the kidneys.
Important! The daily magnesium requirement of an adult organism ranges from 280 - 350 mg.
In preparations available in pharmacies, magnesium is very often combined with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which is characterised by its ability to inhibit the excretion of magnesium from the body.
Magnesium - the element of life
Among other things, magnesium ions stabilise the structure of ribosomes (too little magnesium promotes the breakdown of ribosomes into subunits). In addition, they are also important in such vital cellular processes as replication and also transcription of genetic information.
A very important role of magnesium ions is that they regulate oxidoreduction processes, influence lipid metabolism, the level of catecholamines (e.g. adrenaline) and the permeability of cell membranes.
Important! Magnesium deficiency results in a disturbance of the above processes, which leads to metabolic dysfunction (especially of smooth muscle cells and cardiac muscle), in addition to promoting the development of atherosclerosis.
The maintenance of a magnesium balance depends on the physiological state of the organism.
Important! The body's requirement for this micronutrient varies with age, gender, physical activity and also during pregnancy and lactation.
Magnesium influences the production (quantity) of bile, thus inhibiting the formation of gallstones. In addition, the element stimulates intestinal peristalsis, participates in the formation of digestive juices, and protects against poisoning and allergies.
photo: shutterstock
Important! Reduces lead toxicity and also facilitates its excretion from the body.
On the subject of physiological specificity, magnesium influences the functioning of all body structures.
