Magnesium is a cofactor in more
than 300 enzymes, it plays a vital role in energy metabolism, homeostasis of
electrolites, and bone metabolism, and regulates a number of fundamental functions
such as muscle contraction, neuromuscular conduction, glycemic control, and
blood pressure. Magnesium deficiency has been associated with a wide range of
diseases, from cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, diabetes, to anxiety and
other mental disorders, migraine and osteoporosis, and especially worrying is
subclinical form which is estimated to affect up to 30% of the population.
Recommended dietary intake of magnesium is 300 mg and 350 mg per day for adult
males and females, respectively. While highly abundant in a variety of foods,
especially green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, water is the main
contributor to magnesium daily intake. Water has been the focus of a number of
public health interventions aiming to improve magnesium status of populations, especially
in Israel and Australia. Supplements are becoming a more important contributor
to the total magnesium intake, especially among physically active individuals.
Public awareness of the health benefits gained from physical activity is
improving, and more individuals decide to engage in (recreational) physical
activity. Even though physical activity increases the risk of magnesium
deficiency, misuse of supplements due to lack of knowledge and misinformation
shared on social networks can have a detrimental effect on individual’s health and physical performance.