MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is a macro element with the atomic number of 12 and also known as the anti-stress mineral. It is an important nutrient for the brain as it raises the resistance against stress, depression, tensions and helps against mental tiredness. It also strengthens the memory and concentration. Magnesium is involved in releasing energy from the diet and is involved in a good functioning nervous system and muscles. It is also involved in the formation of strong bones and teeth and is active as an assistant cofactor of the B and C vitamins.
The atomic number of magnesium is 12, which means that in its stable state, it has 12 protons and 12 electrons. An ion forms when an atom either loses or gains electrons. If the atom gains electrons, it becomes a negatively charged ion. If it loses electrons, it becomes a positively charged ion. The atomic number of magnesium (Mg) is 12. The atomic weight of Mg is 24.3050 grams per mole.See the Web Links to the left of this answer for a periodic table with more information about this element!
Magnesium is necessary for many body functions, such as energy production and cell division and is essential for the transfer of nerve impulses. It protects against heart and vascular diseases, repairs and maintains the cells and is necessary for hormone production and can lower blood pressure. Magnesium is useful in the treatment of fibromyalgia, prostate problems, 'restless legs' and premenstrual tension.
This mineral acts as a co-factor for more than 300 enzymes, including enzymes involved in the body's use of glucose and insulin secretion. All human tissues contain small amounts of magnesium. The adult human body contains about 25 g of this mineral. The greater part of this amount is present in bones in combination with phosphate and carbonate. Bone ashes contain less than one per cent magnesium. About one-fifty of the total magnesium in the body is present in the soft tissues, where it is mainly bound to protein. Next to potassium, magnesium is the predominant metallic action in living cells. The bones seem to provide a reserve supply of this mineral in case of shortage elsewhere in the body.
Magnesium is the mineral that stabilises the heart, calms the nerves and regulates the heart beat. Biochemists call magnesium the ' cool, alkaline, refreshing, sleep-promoting mineral'. Magnesium helps one keep calm and cool during the sweltering summer months. It aids in keeping nerves relaxed and normally balanced and is necessary for all muscular activity.
This mineral is an activator for most of the enzyme system involving carbohydrate, fat and protein in energy-producing reactions. It is also involved in the production of lecithin which prevents the building up of cholesterol and consequent atherosclerosis. Magnesium promotes a healthier cardiovascular system and aids in fighting depression. It helps prevent calcium deposits in the kidneys and gallbladder and also brings relief from indigestion. This mineral together with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) has also been found effective in the prevention and treatment of bladder, kidney stones and bile and gall stones. Magnesium has also proved useful in other bladder and urinary problems and in epileptic seizure.
Magnesium is nature's own calcium channel blocker. When there is enough magnesium around, veins and arteries breathe a sigh of relief and relax, which lessens resistance and improves the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Studies show that a deficiency of magnesium is not only associated with heart attack but that immediately following a heart attack, lack of sufficient magnesium promotes free radical injury to the heart.
Magnesium rich foods are commonly recommended to people who suffer from asthma issues. It can increase lung capacity and build on the efficiency of the respiratory process.
Magnesium deficiency
It is estimated that 80% of the population of western countries are magnesium deficient. Magnesium deficiency was the cause of death from sudden heart attacks in 8 million people in the USA from 1940-1994. Diabetes can cause magnesium expulsion and lead to heart attacks.
Heavy drinkers and alcoholics often show a low plasma magnesium concentration and a high urinary output. They may, therefore, require magnesium therapy especially in an acute attack of delirium tremens.
Too much phosphorous can cause diarrhoea and calcification (hardening) of organs and soft tissue and can interfere with the body's ability to useiron,calcium,magnesium and zinc. It is a matter of getting the balance right which is why supplementation is not advised. Foods that contain these minerals will never overdose the consumer with phosphorous.
Some bottled mineral waters contain good amounts of magnesium but some do not so it is best to always check labels. The treatments done to some bottled waters and tap water can remove the magnesium content altogether.
The body does not store magnesium like it does calcium. Magnesium is excreted as a result of drinking alcohol or high caffeine drinks such as coffee and fizzy drinks, high stress, diarrhoea, sugar intake or high levels of protein and fruit in the diet.
Comprehensive data on the chemical element Magnesium is provided on this page; including scores of properties, element names in many languages, most known nuclides of Magnesium. Common chemical compounds are also provided for many elements. In addition technical terms are linked to their definitions and the menu contains links to related articles that are a great aid in one's studies.
A list of reference sources used to compile the data provided on our periodic table of elements can be found on the main periodic table page.
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