About this ingredient
Magnesium is an essential mineral and electrolyte naturally present in foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains and leafy green vegetables. It is involved in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate processes including energy production, protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose regulation and blood pressure regulation.
Magnesium is commonly included in multivitamins and standalone dietary supplements. Different magnesium compounds are used to provide elemental magnesium, and the amount of elemental magnesium—not simply the total weight of the magnesium compound—is important when comparing products.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults is generally 310–320 mg/day for women and 400–420 mg/day for men, depending on age. The upper limit of 350 mg/day for adults applies specifically to magnesium from supplements and medications, not magnesium naturally present in food.