Magnesium Flashcards
1
Q
How is magnesium absorbed?
A
- small intestine via active and passive transport
40-60% absorbed, but up to 80% when needs are high
High fibre and high zinc lowers absorption
2
Q
Where is magnesium stored in the body?
A
50% stored in hydroxyapatite in bones
33% in muscles
3
Q
What is the role of magnesium?
A
- second most abundant ICF anion
- binds to phosphate of ATP to stabilise
- cofactor to over 300 enzymes
- DNA/RNA synthesis
- smooth muscle contraction
- nerve transmission
4
Q
What are good sources of magnesium?
A
- brazil nuts
- spinach
- beans
5
Q
What is caused by a magnesium deficiency?
A
- irregular heart beat
- weakness
- muscle spasms due to imbalance of sodium/potassium pumping
6
Q
What is caused by a magnesium deficiency?
A
Excessive supplemental dose results in diarrhoea
