Magnesium is an extremely important mineral, and the magnitude of its importance is just starting to be understood by doctors, physicians, and researchers. Until recently, the main focus of magnesium has been on treating high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia of pregnancy. Eclampsia is characterized by convulsions and is a serious complication of pregnancy. More recently it has been found that magnesium can be used to treat a variety of conditions such as chronic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, asthma, fatigue, acute heart attacks, heart arrhythmias, and many other serious conditions.

Magnesium deficiency is characterized by numerous symptoms, some of which are usual to other deficiencies or disorders. Magnesium deficiency can affect almost the whole body, from cramps, muscle tension, back aches, and headaches, to chest tightness and insomnia. Magnesium can affect so many different organs, and functions of the body because of the huge role it plays in each and every cell in the human body. It is important for over 300 different enzyme systems in the body, and is stored in most tissues. Because only about 1% of magnesium flows through the blood stream, it is sometimes difficult for doctors to assess if you have a sufficient amount in your system, and people should make sure they are consuming this mineral through their diet. It is used to keep bones strong, maintain muscle and nerve function, and promote heart health. Magnesium can be found in leafy green vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, and fish such as halibut or tuna.

The best way to find out how much magnesium you should be getting daily is to consult with your doctor. They can properly advise any changes that may need to be made in your diet, and possibly recommend you take a multivitamin or magnesium supplement.