Magnesium is an essential mineral which is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including energy production, transmission of nerve impulses, regulation of body temperature, detoxification, and formation of healthy bones and teeth. It also aids in the body’s absorption of calcium. As if this wasn’t enough, magnesium is involved in protein synthesis, muscle function and normal parathyroid function. It prevents the development of osteoporosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, constipation, diabetes, high blood pressure, migraines, kidney stones, gallstones, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and also enhances the bioavailability of cholesterol and vitamin B6. Women also gain relief from the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopause when they have sufficient levels of magnesium.

Be careful not to oversupplement with magnesium, because in large doses it can cause low blood pressure, muscle weakness, fatigue, diarrhea and nausea. Magnesium can also interact with some heart medications, antibiotics and diuretics. Anyone with significant disease or illness should be evaluated by a physician before taking magnesium supplements.

Magnesium can be found in whole grains, fish, leafy green vegetables, dark chocolate and nuts (particularly almonds), but it is difficult to get the recommended daily allowance from food sources alone. You can take 400 milligrams per day in two or three divided doses. Chelated forms, which are forms ending in “-ate” (citrate, taurate, glycinate) tend to be better absorbed by the body and are preferred over other forms. There are also magnesium topical formulations available which some say is a more readily absorbed form.