MagnesiumWhat is magnesium?
Updated 10 Nov 2026
Short answer
Magnesium is a mineral that the body needs for more than 300 enzyme systems, including those for muscles, nerves, blood sugar and blood pressure.[1] An adult body holds about 25 g, and half or more of it is in bone.[1]
Good food sources are green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains.[1] Supplements sell it as magnesium oxide, citrate, chloride and other forms. It is also in some laxatives and antacids.[1]
Sources (1)
- Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.gov
More about magnesium
Which foods are good sources of magnesium?What does elemental magnesium mean on a supplement label?What are magnesium's main benefits?Who is most likely to have low magnesium?Is magnesium safe?Does magnesium help you sleep?For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.