In recent months, the supplementation of magnesium has become increasingly popular. While a lot of people have super knowledge of why the mineral is so important in our body, some people still aren’t so sure. We have compiled a summary of the top 5 benefits of magnesium. In this we have included ways it can be included through diet, and ways it can be supplemented by our favourite high quality products.

Magnesium is a mineral found in the earth, sea, plants, animals and humans. Magnesium is an essential mineral for staying healthy and is required for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Multiple health benefits of magnesium include transmission of nerve impulses, body temperature regulation, detoxification, energy production, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth.

Some benefits of Magnesium include:

1. Helps fight depression and insomnia

We have put this one first because its something everyone should know. Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function and mood, and low levels are linked to an increased risk of depression. Some experts suggest that modern foods may contribute to a higher incidence of depression and mental illness due to the lower levels of magnesium.

When magnesium levels are low, nerve cell communication is inhibited, which leads to cell excitability, causing us to become more restless and stressed.

2. Magnesium helps fight type 2 diabetes

Studies show that individuals with a magnesium deficiency have a risk of developing type-2 diabetes and severe diabetic retinopathy. Magnesium helps the body break down carbohydrates and influences the release and activity of insulin, thereby controlling blood glucose levels. It has been proven that for every 100mgs of increase in magnesium daily intake, there was a 15 percent decrease in the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

3. Magnesium is vital for cardiovascular health

Probably one of the most important benefits of magnesium in our bodies is its impact on heart health. Magnesium deficiency can increase the risk of fatal heart rhythms, particularly after a heart attack, but also to prevent one. For that reason consuming a healthy amount if magnesium may be beneficial to the cardiovascular system.

4. Magnesium is important for healthy bones

Multiple research studies conducted have suggested that calcium supplemented with magnesium improves bone mineral density. Magnesium deficiency alters calcium metabolism and the hormones that regulate calcium, resulting in osteoporosis. Intake of recommended levels of magnesium is important because it helps prevent osteoporosis.

Supplementation of magnesium with calcium can be found in powder or capsule form.
Mag365 Plus Calcium is the powdered form, which we have received very positive feedback from.

Terranova Magnesium Calcium Complex is a similar supplement in capsule form.

5. Magnesium can Boost Exercise Tolerance and Stamina

During exercise, you may actually need 10–20% more magnesium than when you’re resting, depending on the activity. Magnesium helps move blood sugar into your muscles and dispose of lactic acid, which can build up in muscles during exercise and cause pain. With less cramping and pains when exercise, magnesium may be able to help improve stamina when exercising.

What foods can I find magnesium in?

Foods high in magnesium include dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach; nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds, brazil nuts, almonds and cashews; wholegrains like brown rice; avocados; bananas and our favourite – DARK CHOCOLATE 🙂

As well as the magnesium supplements mentioned above, we also stock a various range of magnesium supplements on their own.
Nature’s Plus Magnesium Powder is an orange flavoured powder supplement, as it is a magnesium citrate some research suggests it is absorbed faster in the body. This is also available in capsule form here: Nature’s Plus Magnesium Capsules , we are offering 15% off these products at the moment online and instore.
Another magnesium product available in powder form is the popular Mag365 , this is unflavoured and is also available in a kiddies version.