The mineral magnesium is vital for the body to function at optimum level; it helps to maintain normal blood pressure, ensures the heart beats with a steady rhythm and helps to keep bones healthy. Medical experts say that most people do not eat enough foods that contain magnesium which can lead to elevated inflammation in their bodies. Inflammation has been associated with health issues such as heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancers. Magnesium deficiency has also been identified as a risk factor for people suffering from osteoporosis.

Magnesium, when injected intravenously, is also used to treat conditions such as eclampsia in pregnancy and severe cases of asthma attacks. The benefits of magnesium also include that it is an ingredient in antacids and laxatives. While serious magnesium deficiencies are rare they often occur in people suffering from kidney disease, Crohn’s disease, parathyroid issues and those that take drugs to treat diabetes or cancer.