5 reasons to take magnesium supplement
I have recently begun taking a magnesium supplement and noticed a marked improvement with sleep, anxiety, and ability to relax. Because of this, I started doing some research on magnesium and what I’ve found repeatedly from every source I’ve researched is the statistic that 80% of adults are magnesium deficient. Factors that reduce or deplete magnesium in our bodies include stress, sugar, and caffeine intake so it’s no wonder most of us are deficient. Unfortunately, magnesium is a very important mineral for hormonal health, blood pressure, immune system functioning, and mental/emotional health.
Below are 5 benefits of magnesium:
Reduces muscles spasms and cramps. Magnesium supports healthy neuromuscular signals and contractions while supporting relaxation. I noticed a significant impact on relaxation when I began supplementing with magnesium.
Reduces anxiety. Magnesium has been called the relaxation mineral. Not only does it help the body to physically relax, but magnesium is supposedly important in supporting neurochemical health in the brain. Magnesium promotes the release of serotonin in the brain, aka “the happy chemical” because when released in the brain, serotonin promotes a sense of happiness and well-being. Interestingly, stress depletes the body of magnesium, so you may need more supplemented during times of increased stress or anxiety.
Improves sleep. This was also another benefit I noticed when I began taking my magnesium supplement. The relaxation effects of magnesium in the muscles and reduced anxiety promote sleep but magnesium is also said to support GABA receptor functioning in the brain, a neurotransmitter necessary for a restful state.
Hormonal regulation, decreased PMS, and improved pregnancy. Because magnesium supports hormone regulation and muscle relaxation it can reduce muscle cramping associated with PMS, as well as morning sickness, muscle cramping, and headaches associated to pregnancy.
Decreased migraines. Magnesium is important for blood circulation, neurotransmitter functioning and reduces the constriction of blood vessels. All of these factors can help to reduce or prevent migraines. I have a friend who has not suffered from a migraine since supplementing with magnesium.
Food sources for magnesium include dark leafy greens, dark chocolate, nuts and seeds, almonds, and avocados. However, due to soil depletion and a reduction in minerals in drinking water, we typically don’t get as much magnesium naturally as we should. I personally take and love this magnesium supplement, however I recommend purchasing from a health food store due to reports of 3rd party sellers on Amazon selling imitations of this product. I noticed the benefits after the initial time trying it, and based on online reviews, I’m not the only one. There are so many magnesium supplements out there and I recommend doing your own research to decide if magnesium is right for you to try.