Magnesium

Magnesium (Mg) is an essential macromineral for all biosynthetic processes including glycolysis, energy-dependent membrane transport, formation of cyclic-AMP, and transmission of the genetic code. Magnesium is also involved in the maintenance of electrical potentials across nerve and muscle membranes and for nerve impulse transmission. Mg is primarily absorbed in the horse's small intestine.

Horses in gestation and lactation require a substantial increase in Mg in their diet. Usually, most pastures with decent grass cover provide horses with adequate Mg intake.

If magnesium is supplemented to attenuate a deficiency, it has been shown to sometimes act as a slight sedative, reducing blood pressure and improving insulin sensitivity. Excessive doses of magnesium may cause gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea.