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Magnesium in diet

Definition

Magnesium is an essential mineral for human nutrition.

Alternative Names

Diet - magnesium

Function

Magnesium in the body serves several important functions:

  • Contraction and relaxation of muscles
  • Function of certain enzymes in the body
  • Production and transport of energy
  • Production of protein

References

Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. DRI Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 1997.

Review Date: 2/27/2008
Reviewed By: Patrika Tsai, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor, Pediatric GI, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMedHealthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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