Magnesium is one of the most important minerals our bodies need. It’s involved in over 300 processes in our bodies, helping everything run smoothly—from muscle function to nervous system function and even energy levels. Yet, many people are deficient in magnesium, largely due to the stresses of modern life and increasingly mineral-deficient diets. In this blog, you’ll discover exactly what magnesium does and why it’s so important.
What is magnesium?
Magnesium is a mineral found in the earth, sea, plants, animals, and of course in our own bodies. It is commonly found in common foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. In our own bodies, magnesium is an essential mineral that helps various bodily functions run smoothly. It is a building block found in our bones, muscles, and cells. Magnesium acts as a “helper” for hundreds of enzymes involved in chemical reactions, and plays a role in almost all important processes in our bodies. It is best known for supporting muscle and nerve function, maintaining strong bones, and contributing to extra energy when tired.
Why is magnesium so important?
Magnesium is a real all-rounder in the body. Below we discuss some of the most important functions of this mineral.
Energy production
Magnesium helps your body convert energy from food into usable fuel. This is done by its involvement in the formation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is considered the most important source of energy in your body. As a result, sufficient magnesium intake helps reduce fatigue and listlessness.
Muscle support
Many people use magnesium to combat muscle cramps and tension. The mineral helps maintain strong and flexible muscles. This makes magnesium a popular supplement among athletes and people who do physical work.
Stress and relaxation
Magnesium is also known as the “relaxation mineral.” It helps keep your nervous system in balance and plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which contributes to a good mood. When you are stressed, your body uses up magnesium more quickly, which can lead to a deficiency and increase your sensitivity to stress. That is why it can help to take extra magnesium during stressful periods.
Bone health
About 60% of the magnesium in your body is found in your bones, where it contributes to bone density and works in conjunction with other minerals like calcium and phosphorus to help keep bones strong.
Sleep quality
Many people with sleep problems benefit from magnesium supplements. Magnesium helps your muscles relax and contributes to the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. This makes it easier to fall asleep and gives you a deeper and more restorative sleep.
How do you get enough magnesium?
Magnesium is found in many different foods, but modern farming practices have often reduced the mineral in soil, meaning our foods contain less magnesium than they used to. Here are some foods rich in magnesium:
- Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach
- Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, pumpkin seeds and chia seeds
- Legumes, such as lentils and black beans
- Whole grains, such as oats
- Avocado
- Dark chocolate
Although it is possible to get magnesium from food, some people may find it difficult to get enough, especially during stressful times, when exercising intensively, or due to an unhealthy diet. In such cases, a magnesium supplement may be a good addition.
Also read: When is extra magnesium important?
Summary
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in numerous processes in the body, from energy production to stress regulation and bone health. Although it is found in many foods, many people do not get enough magnesium due to stress, poor diet, or increased needs. Therefore, supplementing with magnesium can be helpful, especially during times when your body needs extra support.
When choosing a magnesium supplement, it is important to consider your individual needs and any health issues. Are you unsure which magnesium is right for you? Then ask for personal supplement advice from one of our therapists.