Magnesium citrate
Magnesium is a vital element that is found in every body
tissue and is necessary for the normal functioning of cells.
Magnesium citrate, which is both well tolerated and absorbed
by the human body, participates in most metabolic reactions
and helps to promote the production and consumption of energy.
Deficiency of magnesium can lead to fatigue, inability to
concentrate, irritability, bad moods, insomnia, back pain,
skin and hair issues, cramps in the gastrocnemius (lower calf)
muscle, arrhythmia and depression. Deficiency of magnesium
also dramatically speeds up the development of atherosclerosis,
hypertension, diabetes and kidney stones.
The human body needs on average about 300 mg of magnesium
per day. The need for magnesium increases, however, with frequent
use of laxatives or alcohol, and with high levels of mental
and physical stress — all of which can lead to the development
of magnesium deficiency in the body.
Magnesium is particularly necessary for bone health. About
60% of the magnesium stored in human body is contained in
bones and teeth, and about one-third can be quickly mobilized
when needed by the body. Twenty percent is stored in the muscle,
19% in other parts of the body (brain, heart, liver, kidneys,
etc.), and 1% in the extracellular fluid.
Bones, teeth
60% |
|
Magnesium |
 |
Muscles
20% |
| |
|
|
 |
|
Brain, heart,
liver, kidneys, etc.
19% |
|
Extracellular
fluid
1% |
Magnesium is also involved in the removal of toxins in the
liver and protection against the effects of radiation. Magnesium
additionally protects against exposure to heavy metals in
the body (e.g., lead), and removes them from metabolism.
As a nutrient, magnesium citrate has many advantages due
relative to its biological properties. Principally, magnesium
in its citrate form has high bioavailability. Citrates are
among the best conductors to the cells. They reduce the release
of calcium in urine, lead to better absorption of vitamin
C and various minerals, and help to neutralize toxins and
nitrates. Citrate is also an instrumental component in the
energy cycle of cells (Krebs cycle), the fundamental mechanism
whereby carbohydrates, fats and proteins are converted into
carbon dioxide and water to generate usable energy.
Magnesium citrate is also sometimes used for emptying the
lower digestive tract or treating bowel sluggishness. It works
by attracting water through the tissues, drawing enough water
into the intestine to naturally stimulate bowel motility,
thereby inducing defecation.
While individuals can maintain optimal health without supplementing
magnesium in the diet, much of the magnesium naturally present
in foods is lost in processing. Magnesium, like other elements
required by the human body, is not synthesized but delivered
through dietary sources. It has been appropriately referred
to as "the primary metal of life."
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Principal Author: M. Ofiyeva
Date of Initial Publication: 07/05/2007
Article Last Updated: 08/26/2009
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