Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for the proper functioning of the body of mammals. This mineral plays a role in no less than 600 enzymatic reactions. For example, in processing nutrients, producing proteins and DNA, controlling muscles, and producing hormones. Magnesium also affects blood vessels and blood pressure. Abnormalities in magnesium levels in the body can lead to problems such as higher stress sensitivity or heart rhythm disorders. The amount of magnesium present in the body is strongly influenced by absorption by the intestines and excretion via the kidneys and urine. Relatively little magnesium is excreted through sweat.

Magnesium deficiency?

Scientific research has shown that the soils of agricultural areas are becoming increasingly poor in magnesium. This means that plant-based foods, such as grains, now contain about 20% less magnesium than they did in the mid-20th century. Not only is there a shortage of magnesium in many foods, but a magnesium deficiency can also occur due to diabetes, gastrointestinal problems, or the use of diuretics. When the magnesium deficiency is not so great, the symptoms are often mild. A larger deficiency can be more serious and cause muscle cramps, nervousness, depression, muscle tremors, and heart rhythm disorders, for example. Because magnesium plays a role in many different processes, a deficiency can be seen in many places in the body. Adding magnesium to the diet may be necessary, especially in cases of diabetes and heart problems. Dogs (and humans) with diabetes are more susceptible to magnesium deficiency because insulin plays a role in the absorption and excretion of this mineral.

Which form of magnesium?

Magnesium is always found in a compound with other substances. The magnesium atom is then bound to one or more other atoms, such as two oxygen atoms or sulfate (a complex of sulfur and oxygen atoms), for example. Each magnesium compound reacts differently in the body. Some compounds are better absorbed than others. Generally, organic compounds such as magnesium sulfate are more bioavailable than inorganic compounds. When magnesium has a so-called chelate compound, with an amino acid, it is the most bioavailable. Magnesium chelate is absorbed through a different route than, for example, magnesium oxide. Magnesium chelate can also pass through the blood-brain barrier and thus reach the central nervous system.

Which supplement for your dog?

Conclusion: magnesium is an important mineral for numerous bodily functions. Especially for dogs that often experience stress or restlessness, train a lot, sometimes seem a bit stiff, or have diabetes, a magnesium supplement can be a good idea. Always choose a highly absorbable form of magnesium, such as magnesium chelate. This will have a greater effect. Some vitamins, such as vitamin B2, can further stimulate the absorption of magnesium in the body. Therefore, carefully choose a good magnesium supplement so that the magnesium actually reaches the right place and can do its work in your dog's body.

Sources

Marta R. Pardo, Elena Garicano Vilar, Ismael San Mauro Martín, María Alicia Camina Martín,

Bioavailability of magnesium food supplements: A systematic review. Nutrition, Volume 89,

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0899900721001568

Uysal, N., Kizildag, S., Yuce, Z. et al. Timeline (Bioavailability) of Magnesium Compounds in Hours: Which Magnesium Compound Works Best?. Biol Trace Elem Res 187, 128–136 (2019).

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12011-018-1351-9