Magnesium is essential to every organ in the body and is involved in more than 300 metabolic reactions. Magnesium is particularly important for the functioning of your heart's electrical system where it helps to maintain a steady rhythm. Although magnesium supplements are available without prescription, you should consult your physician before you take any supplement to determine an appropriate dose and discuss possible drug interactions.
About
Magnesium deficiency is rare in the U.S. as this micronutrient is readily available from dietary sources such as whole grains, green leafy vegetables and nuts. Nevertheless, some health problems may result in a deficiency and require magnesium supplementation. Common causes of magnesium deficiency include hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal disease or infection, diabetes and pancreatitis.
The Heart
Each heartbeat is a complicated electrical event that involves three main parts: the sinoatrial node, the atrioventricular node and the His-Purkinje system. The heartbeat is initiated by an electrical signal from the "pacemaker" of the heart -- the sinoatrial node -- which causes the upper two chambers of the heart, or the ventricles, to contract. The signal from the sinoatrial node spreads to the atrioventricular node and through a network of fibers called the bundle of His and on to the Purkinje fibers. The propagation of the electrical impulse causes the atria to contract and pump blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.
Electrochemical Function
The effective functioning of the electrical system of the heart depends on a chemical process called ion transport. Magnesium is essential for the transport of calcium and potassium between cells, and consequently plays an important role in keeping your heart rate stable and steady.
Application
Not surprisingly, magnesium is implicated both in the etiology and the treatment of problems related to the heart. For instance, intravenous doses of magnesium are sometimes given to individuals with congestive heart failure to reduce the likelihood that they will develop an arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. Additionally, there is some evidence that a diet rich in magnesium may help to lower high blood pressure according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Magnesium is sometimes given to pregnant women to prevent or treat sudden spikes in blood pressure called preeclampsia.
