Magnesium
Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions within the body, including the metabolism of food, synthesis of fatty acids and proteins, and the transmission of nerve impulses. The human body contains around 25 gram (g) of magnesium, 50 to 60 percent of which is stored in the skeletal system. The rest is present in muscle, soft tissues, and bodily fluids.
Magnesium is one of seven essential macrominerals. These are minerals that need to be consumed in relatively large amounts, at least 100 milligrams (mg) per day. An adequate intake can help prevent problems with bones, the cardiovascular system, diabetes, and other functions.
Zinc is a naturally occurring mineral. Zinc is important for growth and for the development and health of body tissues. Zinc gluconate is used to treat and to prevent zinc deficiency. Zinc gluconate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Before using zinc gluconate, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, herbalist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to use zinc gluconate if you have certain medical conditions. Avoid taking this medication with foods that are high in calcium or phosphorus, which can make it harder for your body to absorb zinc gluconate.
Foods high in calcium or phosphorus include milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, dried beans or peas, lentils, nuts, peanut butter, beer, cola soft drinks, and hot cocoa. Zinc gluconate can make certain antibiotics less effective.
It is also used for boosting the immune system, improving growth and heath in zinc deficient infants and children, for treating the common cold and recurrent ear infections, the flu, upper respiratory tract infections, preventing and treating lower respiratory infections, swine flu, bladder infections, ringing in the ears, and severe head injuries. It is also used for malaria and other diseases caused by parasites.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in mood regulation. This is partly because this vitamin is necessary for creating neurotransmitters that regulate emotions, including serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Vitamin B6 may also play a role in decreasing high blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which have been linked to depression and other psychiatric issues.
Vitamin B6 may play a role in improving brain function and preventing Alzheimer’s disease, but the research is conflicting. B6 can decrease high homocysteine blood levels that may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Vitamin B6 may prevent clogged arteries and minimize heart disease risk.
Research shows that people with low blood levels of vitamin B6 have almost double the risk of getting heart disease compared to those with higher B6 levels. This is likely due to the role of B6 in decreasing elevated homocysteine levels associated with several disease processes, including heart disease.
