Magnesium

Why magnesium matters

Magnesium takes part in a very large number of enzymatic reactions in the body and is involved at every functional level. It is not the only important mineral, but it holds a key position in coordinating the others. Many substances can only do their work when enough magnesium is available — without it, calcium for one cannot be used by the body to the usual extent.

Magnesium matters particularly for the muscles. It is also involved in energy metabolism, in bone structure and in the electrolyte balance. And the nervous system depends on it — no small consideration in a demanding daily routine.

What magnesium does in the body

As part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, magnesium

• contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
• contributes to normal muscle function
• contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system
• contributes to normal psychological function
• contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
• contributes to electrolyte balance
• contributes to normal protein synthesis
• contributes to the maintenance of normal bones
• contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth
• has a role in the process of cell division

These are the health claims authorised for magnesium under European law (Regulation (EU) No 432/2012).

How much magnesium the body needs

The German Nutrition Society gives an estimated value for adequate intake in adults of 300 milligrams per day for women and 350 milligrams for men. The requirement is not a fixed figure: it shifts with life stage, physical activity and diet.

Magnesium is found in wholegrain products, nuts, pulses, green vegetables and in some mineral waters. How much of it actually reaches the body depends on absorption in the gut — and that is limited. Even a healthy gut takes up only part of the magnesium supplied, and its capacity to do so changes over the course of a lifetime.

This is precisely where transdermal application comes in: intake through the skin, bypassing the digestive tract.

Magnesium on television

The German broadcaster RTL covered the topic of magnesium in its programme Punkt 12.