Role: Participates in hundreds of enzyme reactions. Regulates muscle contractility. Involved in nerve function and blood clotting, release of energy from ATP.
Deficiency: Weakness, confusion. Constipation. Disturbed heart rhythm.
Sources: Whole grain products; green vegetables: nuts; legumes; bananas; seafood; molasses; cocoa and chocolate.
Toxicity: Nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, diarrhea.
Severe hypermagnesemia depresses breathing, causes coma, cardiac arrest.