MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is a major mineral involved in the reaction of more than 300 enzymes in the body. The majority of magnesium (60%) is found in the bones, others are found inside cells of body tissues and organs. Magnesium is required in a long list of body functions. It is necessary for the nerve/muscle function, regulation of body temperature, DNA/RNA synthesis, detoxification, energy metabolism and the formation of healthy bones and teeth. It is also vital for cardiovascular health. It helps thin the blood, relaxes blood vessels, lessens the risk of heart attacks and moderately reduces blood pressure.

Magnesium is often found in combination with calcium supplements and used to help maintain bone density in those individuals at risk for excessive bone loss. Magnesium supplementation is also used to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases. It has been reported to increase the survival rate of patients with congestive heart failure and to help lower blood pressure.


MAGNESIUM, DRINKING WATER, & HEALTH

Are you getting enough magnesium to keep yourself healthy?

"According to the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (1977) there have been more than 50 studies, in nine countries, that have indicated an inverse relationship between water hardness and mortality from cardiovascular disease. That is, people who drink water that is deficient in magnesium and calcium generally appear more susceptible to this disease. The U.S. National Academy of Sciences has estimated that a nation-wide initiative to add calcium and magnesium to soft water might reduce the annual cardiovascular death rate by 150,000 in the United States." ( Dr. Harold D. Foster , " Groundwater and Human Health," Groundwater Resources of British Columbia, Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Parks and Environment Canada, pp 6.1-6.3 (reprint), 1994.

From the 1996 FDA Science Forum. Abstract.

Is the RDA for Magnesium Too Low?

N.A. Littlefield and B.S. Hass

NCTR, FDA, Jefferson AR 72079

Since magnesium (Mg), an essential nutrient, is abundant in the environment and food supply, it is generally assumed that Mg deficiency is not a problem. However, the literature indicates that deficiencies may exist in both thirdworld and industrialized nations and may influence cardiac and vascular diseases, diabetes, bone deterioration, renal failure, hypothyroidism, and stress. Because Mg in certain forms is not easily absorbed and no classical symptoms exist, the problem of Mg deficiency is readily masked, especially in high risk groups such as diabetics, alcoholics, those taking hypertension medication, and some athletes. The current Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for the US is 6 mg/Kg/day, which translates to 420 mg for a 70 Kg man. The estimated intake in the US is 300 mg/day. Studies show that as much as 3 times this amount may be needed by the general population and especially by those predisposed to cardiac disease states. This report summarizes recent research on Mg in human diets and the results of Mg deficiencies.
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