Figure 2. Magnesium distribution in the human body.

Notes: As an intracellular cation, the majority of the body's Mg²⁺ is found in the bone (60%), followed by soft tissues (38-39%). Only 1-2% of Mg²⁺ is present in the extracellular compartment; half of this is either protein-bound or complexed with anions, and the other half exists in its free form.

Mg²⁺: Magnesium; Alb: Albumin; Mg³(PO⁴)²: Magnesium phosphate.

Note: This figure is an original work drawn by the principal author. Image credit: Siti Nadirah Ab Rahim.