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The Function of Magnesium Chloride

Magnesium chloride, or MgCl2, is extracted from seawater. It consists of an ion of magnesium and two ions of chlorine. It is widely used as a magnesium supplement. Industrially, it is produced by a process called Dow's process, wherein magnesium present in seawater is treated with slaked lime to form magnesium hydroxide, which is further treated with hydrochloric acid to form magnesium chloride.

  1. Problems Caused due to Magnesium Deficiency

    • If we have a deficiency of magnesium in the body, then calcium cannot be completely utilized by the body, which can even result in the death of cells. It can cause many diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis and heart problems. It can also cause high blood pressure and blockage of arteries.

    Benefits of Magnesium Chloride

    • Magnesium chloride is considered the most effective magnesium supplement. This is so because magnesium chloride has excess chloride, which increases gastric acid production. Thus, general digestive efficiency is improved. Magnesium helps to revive the cells and helps to delay aging by preventing calcification of organs and tissues, which occurs when the body starts to deteriorate with age.

    Magnesium Supplements

    • Magnesium supplements that contain magnesium chloride salt not only prevent magnesium deficiency but also promote the utilization other minerals in the body. Minerals aid in strengthening tissues such as bones and teeth and help cell membrane permeability. Magnesium chloride also acts as electrolyte and aids the enzyme catalysis process. It activates around 300 enzymes in the body, thereby helping biochemical pathways in the body. It also helps improve bone density.

      Other magnesium salts have to be converted to chlorides in the body. With age, the ability to produce hydrochloric acid declines drastically; it becomes difficult for aging people to use oxide or carbonate supplements since there would not be enough hydrochloric acid to absorb these.

    Dosage of Magnesium Chloride Supplements

    • Magnesium chloride is available in both tablet and capsule forms. People are advised to take magnesium chloride supplements only after consulting with a doctor since it can interact with other supplements and since some may be allergic to it. An overdose of magnesium chloride supplement can result in vomiting, nausea and headache.

    Industrial Applications

    • Magnesium chloride also has some industrial uses. It is used as a raw material in the preparation of cement. It is used in the manufacture of fireproof equipment since it is non-combustible. Also, it is used as a raw material for refrigeration brine. It can also act as a de-icing agent, helping to reduce the formation of snow on the road. It has the advantage that it does not interfere with underground electric services.

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