Disclaimer…I am not a Dr., nor a nutrition expert…I am simply sharing my experiences and opinions about a mineral that has had a positive impact on my health and wellness.
Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in our bodies. Yet many of us are probably not getting enough of it through our diets to experience the benefits it may provide. One contributing reason for this is soil degradation. Put simply…the plants that we grow to eat get their nutrients from the soil…due to time and over farming our soil just doesn’t have the nutrients that it used to have to supply the plants with the vitamins and minerals we need. 100 years ago our food was more nutrient dense than it is today. Which unfortunately means it’s easier to become vitamin and mineral deficient even if you eat a pretty balanced and healthy diet.
So, what are some of the welcomed health benefits of magnesium? The list is quite long since it plays a role in over 300 functions in our bodies. I will shorten it to some of the most common health issues that magnesium can help us with…- aids relaxation and sleep, can help lower blood pressure, anti-inflammatory, help with migraines, reduces insulin resistance, mood booster, reduce exercise recovery time, good for cardiovascular system, can help with constipation, and good for bone and soft tissue health. I think it’s safe to say that magnesium is a health helping star mineral.
Obviously, the very best and natural way to get any nutrient is through our food. Magnesium included. So what foods are highest in this mineral? Leafy greens, dark chocolate (personal fav on list), nuts, pumpkin seeds, avocados, bananas, beans, and lentils are some good choices for getting magnesium into your diet. But what if you think that you might need more than what you’re consuming in your diet for optimal health? You know your own body best. We are all a little different in terms of what we need to feel our best. You may be like me and choose to take a magnesium supplement to make sure that you are getting what you personally need.
Which form of magnesium (Mg) supplement you choose to take might depend on what health concern you wish to address. There are several varieties to pick from including- Mg citrate and Mg oxide (both used for constipation/short term digestion problems), Mg chloride (a salt that is multi-purpose to treat constipation, heartburn, and can be used topically in a cream/lotion form), Mg taurate (may be best for high blood pressure and high sugar levels), Mg L-threonate (may be best for brain health and mood boost), Mg sulfate (Epsom salt, usually dissolved into water to soak in), Mg glycinate (may be best for it’s calming effects), Mg orotate (may improve heart health). There is so much information available on the importance and the health benefits of magnesium and what it does in our bodies. (Here’s a great article about magnesium) I recommend you research what form might be best for you based on your health needs if you believe you might benefit from a magnesium supplement. I am currently taking Magnesium L-threonate. I like that this form does not bother my stomach or have any laxative effect. I also use a topical spray oil of Mg Chloride for muscle and tendon soreness when needed. I find the spray to be very effective and recommend it often to people. But as I said, we are all a little different and you may like a different form of Magnesium for your health concerns and needs.
Wishing you health and wellness! Thanks for stopping by and have a great day!