Magnesium

Magnesium, an alkaline earth metal, is a shiny grey solid which burns in air with an intense white light. Magnesium forms many different salts (sulphate, carbonate, citrate, hydroxide etc) which are important to both biological and industrial applications.

Magnesium is relatively abundant in the human body and is required in cells to support hundreds of enzyme reactions. Many of these reactions contribute to energy production and so magnesium helps with tiredness and fatigue. Magnesium is important in mitochondrial reactions, DNA and RNA processing, and musculoskeletal structural support. Different magnesium salts have many applications, from use as laxatives to antiseptics to health supplements.

Atomic number 12

Atomic mass 24.3

Magnesium is found mainly in pumpkin seeds, chocolate, almonds, cashew nuts and peanuts.

100 g pumpkin seeds contains 262 mg magnesium

Benefits:

1. Magnesium strengthens bones and helps with postmenopausal osteoporosis.
2. Maintains muscle and cartilage function.
3. Provides energy to fight tiredness and fatigue.
4. Maintains normal function of nerves and blood vessels.

Did you know…

More than half the Magnesium in your body is found in the muscles and bones.

Magnesium is used to make aircrafts due to production of alloys which have a unique combination of strength and lightness.

Magnesium is a favourite with chemistry teachers as the energetic and impressive displays of burning magnesium have amazed and inspired many generations of students.

EFSA claims

1. Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
2. Magnesium contributes to electrolyte balance.
3. Magnesium contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism.
4. Magnesium contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system.
5. Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function.
6. Magnesium contributes to normal protein synthesis.
7. Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function.
8. Magnesium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
9. Magnesium contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth.
10. Magnesium has a role in the process of cell division.