Magnesium stellt einen unverzichtbaren Mineralstoff dar, der maßgeblich an der Aufrechterhaltung physiologischer Prozesse beteiligt ist – von der neuromuskulären Signalübertragung bis hin zur Knochenmineralisation. Aktuelle Studien legen nahe, dass ein langfristiger Magnesiummangel nicht nur die Entstehung arteriosklerotischer Plaques und osteopenischer Veränderungen begünstigen kann, sondern möglicherweise auch die Karzinogenese fördert. Eine gezielte Ernährungsstrategie, die sowohl magnesiumreiche Lebensmittel als auch solche mit inhibierenden Faktoren (z. B. Phytate oder Oxalate) berücksichtigt, bildet die Grundlage für eine effektive Prävention. Dieser Artikel bietet eine detaillierte Übersicht über die biochemischen Funktionen von Magnesium, die Pathomechanismen seines Mangels sowie evidenzbasierte Empfehlungen zur diätetischen und supplementären Therapie.
I'm running out of magnesium
Magnesium is, alongside potassium, the most important intracellular cation. It is estimated that the vast majority of it (50 60%) is stored in bones, while 40 45% is in soft tissues. It's absolutely necessary for the proper functioning of our bodies. It turns out that it's an activator of over 300 enzymes. In addition, it is essential for the biosynthesis and maintenance of the structure of nucleic acids (the DNA component), and it also provides energy to the muscles.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency
One of the initial and obvious symptoms of magnesium deficiency is a decrease in its excretion with urine. In addition, in some chronic cases, when this condition leads to the removal of excess calcium from the body, there is a clot, so the disease consists of chronic painful muscle contractions. This occurs often with impaired heart function and general hypertension.
Effects of magnesium deficiency
Chronic magnesium deficiency, due to its essential functions in the body, is associated with an increased incidence of cancer. Additionally, it can be associated with increased levels of free fatty acids and cholesterol in the plasma. At the same time, there is a significant increase in susceptibility to changes in arteriosclerosis.
How can you make up for the magnesium deficiency?
Of course, the best and the only way is to include a diet rich in this element. The rich sources include, among others, cocoa (of course, real powder, containing the highest percentage of cocoa, not a cocoa drink consisting mainly of sugar), cassava, nuts, peas and beans, and even oatmeal, brown rice or whole grain cereals. There are also compounds that improve the process of processing the macroelements in the small intestine. In order to improve the absorption value of magnesium, it is necessary to consume products with these proteins or a lactose-containing diet.