Why Magnesium is so important for your wellbeing
Magnesium is an essential mineral, needed for hundreds of physiological processes in the body. It is part of many cellular systems in the body that regulate energy production, electrolyte balance, neurotransmission, muscular conduction, inflammation, bone development and blood glucose control. It can also help the quality of your sleep.
Did you know?
Muscle twitches, cramps, stress, palpitations, and in more severe cases, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weakness, fatigue, and constipation can all be signs of a magnesium deficiency.
Certain foods, medications, and stress can also interfere with magnesium levels. I.e., alcohol and caffeine increase the excretion of magnesium, tannins in tea bind and remove minerals such as magnesium. Stress can also reduce hydrochloric acid levels in the stomach – decreasing magnesium absorption.
How to get more magnesium into your diet:
Since magnesium is part of chlorophyll (the green pigment in plants), green leafy vegetables such as spinach and silverbeet are great sources. Other foods include nuts, seeds, wholegrains such as brown rice, bananas, other vegetables and legumes. Fun fact: Coconut Water is also packed with magnesium!
In supplement form magnesium – not all magnesium supplements are created equal. It’s important to go for quality. Some are more bioavailable/better absorbed in the body, as well as many different forms of magnesium (glycinate / citrate / oxide / hydroxide and more).
Magnesium is an incredibly important mineral for so many of our bodily functions. From blood pressure, insulin release, pain management, stress & mood support … as well as being a muscle relaxant. Speak to our team in store to find the right one to suit your personal needs.
Five Signs you’re not getting enough Magnesium
- Muscle spasm / weakness twitching eyelids, leg cramps at night and painful period cramps may be signs that you need more magnesium. While most magnesium is stored in bones, a large amount is stored in muscles.Fusion Magnesium is a great electrolyte for muscle relaxation.
- Skin Conditions Unpleasant skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis may benefit from bathing in magnesium. Look for magnesium flakes which can be gentler on sensitive skin.
- Chocolate Cravings this can be your body’s way of sending a subtle hint. Dark chocolate rich in cocoa is a good source of magnesium
- Stress and / or anxiety Magnesium may help the body to fully relax. The effects of stress and anxiety can be felt throughout the whole body and lead to a range of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms. Our qualified Naturopaths in-store are available to offer free health advice and guidance, including practitioner-only dispensed products. Ora Mag Mood & Profound Sleep are ~some great supplements.
- Constipation Magnesium may assist draw water into bowel to help achieve cleansing and detoxing.
Always consult your health care provider before consuming any supplements.
Assunta Hamilton
Kunara Organic Marketplace Naturopath
BHSc Naturopath
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