[Magnesium as a food supplement].

Magnesium is a Cofactor in all enzymes transfering phosphate. It is therefore necessary for the energymetabolism and for many synthesis, i.e. DNA and RNA. Mg is one of the most widespread elements of the earthcrust and is found in many nutritients. Nevertheless the daily intake in the western countries is often under the recommended level, due to the western life stile. Regular alcohol intake lessens the resorption and regular sport enhances the excretion via the sweat. Especially in elderly people this can lead to a lack of Magnesium. This may promote muscular cramps and weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension or bronchial hyperreactivity. It seems to be reasonable to recommend liberally a oral supplementation with magnesium.