Magnesium is another most common cation present in intra-cellular fluid. The main sources of magnesium are nuts, soybeans, whole grains and sea foods. Magnesium is mainly excreted by urine.

The important functions of magnesium are

1. Active enzymes require for carbohydrate and protein metabolism
2. In neural transmission
3. In myocardial function and neuromuscular activities
4. Require for sodium-potassium ATPhase pump system

High concentration of magnesium ion in blood is called as hyper magnesemia and symptoms are

• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Impaired muscular co-ordination
• Hypotension
• Cardiac arrest

Low concentration of magnesium ion in blood is called as hypo magnesemia and symptoms are

·         Weakness

·         Irritability

·         Tetany

·         Delirium

·         Convulsion

·         Confusion

·         Anorexia

·         Nausea

·         Cardiac arrhythmias

The daily requirement of magnesium in body is 350 mg

The adult human body is having 25 gm of magnesium – 54 % in bones, 45 % in intra-cellular fluid and 1 % in extra-cellular fluid.