The Benefits of Magnesium

Only recently I was made aware of the benefits of Magnesium, and I could not wait to share this with you!

Magnesium is an essential mineral required by every organ in the body for a range of activities including bone, protein and fatty acid formation. It is also essential in activating vitamins B and D, relaxing muscles, regulating calcium levels and helping blood to clot and is required for the secretion of insulin. Everyone needs to make sure they have adequate magnesium levels in their body (the suggestion is that adults require about 300 to 400 milligrams a day) but many of us do not get enough magnesium through our diet. Too much stress, processed food, caffeine and alcohol, or heavy periods, can also lower your levels.

What are the benefits for us?
Extensive research is continuing into Magnesium’s health, but the current consensus is that Magnesium has a long list of benefits indeed. For us, the mineral could help with:

relieving premenstrual and period pain

reducing fatigue

promoting muscle relaxation

enhancing restful sleep

reducing chances of developing migraines, including premenstrual and menstrual migraines

relieving nervous tension and anxiety

relieving exercise induces muscle cramps and restlessness, and

promoting stamina

High magnesium foods include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocados, yogurt, bananas, dried fruit, dark chocolate, and more. So make sure you include this in your diet where possible. You could also try taking magnesium supplements that you should be able to get from your local Health shop. Magnesium spray can help you relax your muscles as well if you need instant help.

I have noticed some improvements in my general well-being since I started taking magnesium supplements, mainly feeling less fatigued, having improved PMS symptoms and less belly cramping.

NOTE: There are currently no negative aspects identified to maintaining sufficient magnesium levels through diet or supplementation, but excessive supplementation can lead to diarrhea and stomach upsets. Please speak to your dietitian if you think you need to adjust your diet. Magnesium supplements can interfere with certain medications and other diseases, so check with your doctor before taking supplements.