Magnesium is one of the essential minerals that makes up approximately 0.05% of the body weight. Approximately 50 to 60 percent of which is stored in the bones and teeth. It is involved in hundreds of enzyme-driven biochemical reactions in the body.

To function optimally in the body, magnesium must be balanced with phosphorus, calcium, potassium and sodium. It is absorbed by the body mainly in the small intestine or in the acidic stomach environment. Its absorption is increased by body needs such as growth, pregnancy and lactation or decreased by vitamin D deficiency, gastrointestinal problems and stress, to name a few.

Epidemiologic evidence suggests that magnesium may play an important role in regulating blood pressure. Magnesium also plays an important role in carbohydrate metabolism. The observed association between magnesium metabolism, diabetes and high blood pressure, increase the likelihood that magnesium metabolism may influence cardiovascular disease. Magnesium deficiency may be a risk factor for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Magnesium has also been implicated in the treatment or prevention of other diseases and conditions such as aggressive behaviour, alcoholism and alzheimer's disease.

Most of the dietary magnesium comes from plant sources such as dark green vegetables, nuts, seed and legumes. Hard water can also be a valuable source of magnesium. Much magnesium can be lost in the processing and refining of foods. For example, nearly 85% of the magnesium in grains is lost during the milling of flours.