Without question, magnesium plays a larger role in protecting against cardiovascular disease and stroke than any other nutrient. Low magnesium levels have been shown to result in widespread inflammation and poor antioxidant defenses due to lower glutathione.

Magnesium deficiency also makes the heart irritable (increasing the risk of sudden cardiac death), accelerates atherosclerosis, and increases the risk of death after a heart attack or stroke.

Black people have a much higher death rate from heart attacks and strokes than Caucasians, even though they have lower cholesterol levels.

It has been demonstrated that they have lower magnesium levels, and this plays a major role in their increased risk.

The biggest problem in correcting magnesium deficiencies is poor absorption when taking some magnesium supplements — especially magnesium oxide. Poor absorption leads to diarrhea.

The best-absorbed form of magnesium is a slow release capsule combined with malate or citrate, such as the Jigsaw brand. Taking two capsules twice a day will supply most of the magnesium one needs.