Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for life as we know it. It helps regulate hundreds of biochemical reactions, from the production of protein to the regulation of blood sugar. It plays a role in metabolic reactions and helps maintain required levels of minerals such as potassium, zinc, and calcium in your body. Magnesium is essential for your heart, muscles, nerves, and kidneys to function, and it also helps build bones and teeth and keep them healthy.