Minerals

Magnesium

Involved in 300+ enzymatic reactions. Almost half of adults fall short.

~48% of Americans consume less than the estimated average requirement for magnesium

Why it matters for longevity

Magnesium is essential for energy production, DNA repair, nerve function, and muscle contraction. It plays a key role in regulating blood pressure, blood sugar, and sleep quality. A 2017 meta-analysis in BMC Medicine found that higher magnesium intake was associated with a 10% reduction in heart disease risk, 12% reduction in stroke risk, and 26% reduction in type 2 diabetes risk.

How much you need

RDA

400-420mg for adult men, 310-320mg for adult women

Optimal

Longevity-focused practitioners often recommend 400-600mg daily from food and supplements combined.

Signs you might be low

  • Muscle cramps and twitching
  • Poor sleep quality
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Heart palpitations
  • Fatigue despite adequate rest

Best food sources

FoodPer serving
Pumpkin seeds (1 oz)168mg
Dark chocolate 70-85% (1 oz)65mg
Almonds (1 oz)80mg
Spinach, cooked (1 cup)157mg
Black beans, cooked (1 cup)120mg

Key research

Fang X et al. (2016). Dose-response relationship between dietary magnesium intake and cardiovascular disease risk. BMC Medicine, 14(1), 210.

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