Magnesium is involved in antioxidant defense mechanisms in the body.Magnesium-deficient animals are more susceptible to free radical injury,supporting the hypothesis that magnesium deficiency reduces the threshold of antioxidant capacity.Inadequate intake of this nutrient has been associated with some diseases,where pathogenic role of free radicals is suggested.This article details the progress in research on influences of magnesium in the body's antioxidant system.