Minerals

Magnesium

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

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.

Dosage

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

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

Deficiency signs

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

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

Top food sources

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

Research

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

Track your magnesium intake

Biohack logs magnesium alongside 22 other longevity nutrients in every meal.

Related reading

The 23 Nutrients That Predict How Long You Live

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You Are Probably Low on Magnesium. Most People Are.

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