What is Magnesium?
Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral; although the human body contains a relatively small amount (approximately 25g, 60% of which is in the skeleton), magnesium plays a vital role in the normal functioning of the body (see below). The best dietary sources of magnesium are green leafy vegetables and cereals. Magnesium levels in the body may be depleted following intense physical activity, or by drinking alcohol. Many individuals may not have an adequate intake of magnesium, because of their reliance on processed foods which contain little magnesium.
Magnesium used in supplements may occur in several chemical forms; magnesium oxide is the least expensive but is poorly absorbed, magnesium citrate is the form most readily absorbed, whilst magnesium sulphate and magnesium gluconate are least likely to cause digestive system upset.
What does Magnesium do?
Magnesium is a versatile mineral involved in over 300 enzyme-catalysed metabolic reactions essential for normal functioning of the body. In particular, magnesium is important for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system, and healthy nerves and muscles. Magnesium is also important for bone and tooth formation, and normal skeletal development, as well as in blood clotting and the production of the body’s energy supply.
How much Magnesium should you take?
The National Research Council of the USA recommended daily allowance for magnesium is 320mg/day for women and 420mg/day for men. The optimum daily intake recommended for women is 450-550mg/day, and for men 500-600mg/day.
Are there any adverse effects from taking Magnesium?
Magnesium is generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended intake, occasionally causing gastrointestinal disturbance in susceptible individuals. The risk of dietary/supplemental magnesium overdose is low, since the kidneys are normally very efficient at eliminating any excess. People with renal disease should exercise caution if taking magnesium supplements. Magnesium supplementation may make tetracycline antibiotics less effective.
About Pharma-Nord Bio-Magnesium
Pharma-Nord Bio-Magnesium is produced under Danish pharmaceutical control. Each tablet contains 200mg of magnesium in an easily absorbable form (magnesium acetate 19mg, magnesium carbonate 86mg, magnesium hydroxide 95mg). Pharma-Nord recommends 1 to 2 tablets per day; magnesium tablets are best absorbed when taken with meals.
