Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many physiological functions within the human body and is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. Some of these functions include: energy metabolism, helping convert carbohydrates and fats and proteins into ATP (form of energy used by cells); protein synthesis; nervous system functions such as nerve impulse transmission and muscle contractions; cardiovascular health, involved in maintaining a healthy heart rhythm and lowering blood pressure by relaxing and dilating blood vessels. Lastly, magnesium is also involved in maintaining optimal bone health as it plays a vital role in absorption and metabolism of calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D.

Since magnesium stays in the body for 12 to 24 hours and is easily excreted, it is important to ensure an adequate daily intake of magnesium to make sure all aforementioned functions are carried out efficiently. Additionally, other factors such as over-farming, increase in consumption of processed and refined foods and alcohol, chronic health conditions, stress, and aging further increase the risk of inadequate magnesium intake in individuals. Several studies have shown magnesium deficiency to be quite prevalent in North America with deficiency rates around 34% in Canada and 48% in US. The data also found a higher percentage of women and the elderly population to be magnesium deficient in comparison to other population groups.