Magnesium is used as a cofactor in the body, meaning it acts like an assistant forover600 different processes and reactions2. It allows our muscles and nerves to function, is essential for energy and hormone production, and helps us build and maintain protein, bone, and DNA.
The best way to understand how magnesium impacts the body is that it acts as our universal relaxer. It helps to reduce tension on all levels: physiological, physical, and emotional. It relaxes blood vessels and muscles to lower blood pressure and reduce headaches. It calms the nervous system to promote sleep and alleviate pain. It also relaxes the mind to reduce feelings ofstress and anxiety.
When we don't get enough magnesium from the diet, we tend to experience symptoms of tension and discomfort. Over the long term, inadequate magnesium intake puts us at increased risk for developing osteoporosis, migraines, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease7.
Here are some signsthat you may benefit from magnesium:
- Headaches or migraines- Muscle aches and pains- Feeling stress or anxiety- Insomnia or restlessness at night- Concern that you are not eating a balanced diet- Individuals with digestive disorders that lower the absorption of magnesium, including SIBO, Celiac disease, and Crohn's disease- Individuals taking acid-blocking medications- People who consume alcohol, are over the age of 65, or have type 2 diabetes are more likely to have low magnesium