When we’re talking about essential minerals for our health, we can’t leave out magnesium. Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for the human body. It has a role in more than 300 reactions and enzymatic processes, while also controlling our glucose levels, heart rhythm, bone density and other things. Due to its importance, keeping the magnesium levels in your body stable should be a priority. This was not a problem back in the days, but due to the increased industrialization of the soil and the pesticides used on the produce we eat, most of us are lacking magnesium in our bodies.
Magnesium deficiency is a major health problem that may not be so serious in the beginning, but if left unresolved, it can create bigger problems in the future. According to Dr. Normal Shealy, MD and neurosurgeon, it is actually the main culprit for more than a few serious diseases.
Here are the health benefits of this essential mineral:
Keeps your memory sharp
According to experts, if you want to keep your brain and memory sharp, you must have enough magnesium in your cerebrum. This essential mineral allows proper neural connections in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for long-term memory. The mineral also keeps the synaptic nerve endings in the prefrontal cortex which is responsible for short-term memory active, so you can see how a lack of it can become a problem.
Prevents Alzheimer’s diseases and other neurological problems
Recent studies have shown that one of the main factors for Alzheimer’s disease is a buildup of the so-called amyloid plaque in the brain, and that magnesium can prevent this from happening. Low levels of this mineral have been related to higher amyloid plaque buildup, which is why you should keep the mineral’s levels steady.
Improves your learning abilities
Thanks to its ability to reinvigorate the nerves and boost their abilities, magnesium can actually improve your learning capacity. In one study, rats that were given magnesium threonate supplement swam faster on a pre-set stage, and their memory of the path stayed in their brain for 24 hours. The rats from the other group managed to complete the tract, but the memory in their brain stayed shorter.
Detox
This mineral is one of the key components in many detox remedies thanks to its ability to purge toxins, chemicals, acids and poisons from our bodies. The mineral can also stimulate the elimination of dangerous contaminants.
Regulates stress and improves your mood
If you’re often anxious and moody, magnesium can help. Several studies have shown that the mineral can reduce anxiety and stress and help your muscles and brain relax, which will definitely improve your mood. The mineral works by boosting the production of serotonin in your brain which regulates your mood and keeps you relaxed. Some experts recommend 125-300 mg. of magnesium per day in order to treat depression and anxiety, but if the symptoms are still there after a week, we suggest visiting a doctor.
Regulates blood sugar
Did you know that this mineral can regulate your blood sugar levels and treat and prevent diabetes? Studies have found a link between low magnesium levels and impaired insulin production. Patients suffering from type 2 diabetes can benefit from a magnesium supplement, but they should take it only after consulting with a doctor first.
Improves your heart health
As it helps our muscles constrict and relax, this mineral is also hugely important for the function of our heart (a muscle itself). It helps the heart maintain its rhythm, and when taken along with calcium and potassium, it can significantly improve your cardiovascular health. By consuming these 3 minerals, you will ensure your blood vessels are working properly and allow the heart to pump blood at a regular rate.
Strengthens your joints and bones
Most of this mineral in our body is found in the bones, while the rest is in the blood and tissue. When the cells need the mineral, they can draw it out of your bones. However, in order to stay strong and healthy, our cells need calcium as well. If the body cells start pulling away calcium from the bones, they will deplete the levels of this crucial mineral, resulting in calcification and osteoporosis, which will raise your risk of fractures.
Prevents insomnia
Studies have shown that magnesium can reduce the cortisol levels in your body, which means it will help you relax and fall asleep easier. In this way, it will also prevent insomnia.
How much magnesium do we need?
The RDA of magnesium currently stands at 310-420 mg. for men (depending on the age – older men need more), and 310-320 mg. for women. Although there are many magnesium supplements available on the market, it’s best to get the mineral through food. You can find magnesium in eggs, green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, legumes, tofu, whole grains, avocado, bananas and dark chocolate. If you decide on a supplement, we suggest getting magnesium L-threonate.
Although not so common, you can intoxicate yourself with magnesium, so we suggest sticking to the recommended daily allowance. An “overdose” of magnesium can cause diarrhea, nausea, arrhythmia, vomiting and abdominal cramps. When taking magnesium supplements, we suggest consulting with a doctor, especially if you’re on some medications as it can interfere with their action.
