Magnesium is a dietary mineral found in whole foods like leafy greens, legumes, seeds, nuts and whole grains. It’s involved in 300+ enzymatic processes in the body—think energy pathways, muscle and nerve function, and routine cellular activities. Because the body doesn’t make magnesium, we get it from food or (when needed) from dietary supplements.
Quick Facts (No Medical Claims)
- Where it’s found: plant foods (spinach, amaranth/morogo, beans, lentils), nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts), seeds (pumpkin/sunflower), whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa), avocado, bananas, dark chocolate.
- Typical daily intake guidelines (adults): often referenced ranges are ~300–420 mg/day, depending on age and sex. Always check local NRVs on SA product labels.
- Lifestyle note: Highly refined diets (low in whole foods), high stress, and heavy training may coincide with lower magnesium intake from food.
How Magnesium Fits Into Everyday Life
- Energy pathways: part of normal ATP-related processes.
- Muscle & nerve function: participates in regular contraction/relaxation and nerve signaling.
- Electrolyte balance: teams up with potassium, sodium and calcium in everyday fluid and cell balance.
- Connective tissue & bones: a portion of the body’s magnesium is stored in bone.
This series is educational only—no diagnoses, treatments, or cures implied.
