Magnesium: what is the function of it in the body?

Magnesium, why do I suggest it when somebody does not sleep well, what is the function of magnesium and why magnesium instead of another more calming natural remedy?

What is the function of magnesium?

I am going to mention just few of them as there are many:

• It is involved in making energy for the body to function
• Bone formation
• Hormones productions
• Synthesis of DNA and maintaining the integrity of DNA
• DNA and RNA transcription (reading and triggering gene activation)
• Amino Acid activation
• Cardiac and smooth muscles contractability (direct action and influence on calcium transport and use) and many more functions about 200 functions…

The latter point is the reason I recommend magnesium as relaxing the muscles, in my view and experience relaxes the mind as well. Reducing the stress response and switches the parasympathetic nervous system on which it means more sleep, and healthy digestive system.

The magnesium that I usually suggest is magnesium citrate, mainly because it can be taken at any time and absorbed easily. However other types of magnesium can be more specific for certain condition.

 

Reference:

Groff J. L. and Gropper S.S. (2000) Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. USA, Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.