Magnesium

What role does it play in the organism?
Magnesium is a mineral of vital importance. It is essential for the appropriate functioning of hundreds of enzymes; it is also needed for every energy-consuming process, a number of steps in protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism and insulin production.

What foodstuffs contain it?
Good dietary magnesium sources are potato, vegetables, fish and legumes.

Who are exposed to magnesium deficiency and what does this deficiency state cause?
Magnesium deficiency may be caused the most frequently by decreased intake (special diets, slimming diets), absorption disorders (chronic diarrhoea), increased magnesium loss and an increased requirement (pregnancy, nursing period, athletes). According to estimates, more than a quarter of the Hungarian population has a magnesium deficient diet.

What is the recommended intake for magnesium?
The daily requirement is 50-250 mg for children depending on age and 300-350 mg for adults.

What are the health risks of excessive magnesium intake?
The intake of high doses may cause diarrhoea. The incidence of side effects in the case of quantities not increasing the daily requirement is minimal.