Magnesium is essential for many body functions, but many people lack it in their diets. About 60% of magnesium is stored in our bones, and the rest in muscles, tissues and fluids.
It supports about 600 metabolic processes, including energy production, protein synthesis, gene maintenance, muscle function, and nerve regulation. It reduces stress by controlling cortisol levels, inducing relaxation and relieving muscle tension.
Magnesium is an essential mineral for women during periods because it is a nerve and muscle relaxant that helps prevent migraines and cramps. This relaxing effect also, in turn, helps regulate the mood swings that often occur during periods, and can be very helpful for bloating and/or breast tenderness.
Magnesium deficiency is associated with headaches and poor sleep due to its function in GABA modulation. Previous studies have also identified its role in sleep quality and metabolic health.
In an Instagram video, Harvard-Stanford-trained gastroenterologist Saurabh Sethi, MD, shared 4 signs of magnesium deficiency that you should never ignore –
1. Muscle cramps and spasms
Magnesium is critical for muscle relaxation, balancing calcium and potassium in muscle cells.
2. Low energy
Magnesium helps your cells produce ATP, your body’s main source of energy.
3. Irregular heartbeat
Magnesium keeps your heart rhythm stable by maintaining balanced electrolyte levels.
He added: “Magnesium increases levels of serotonin, the feel-good hormone, and controls stress by managing cortisol levels.”
Magnesium is an important mineral for heart health as it helps regulate heart rhythm and maintain normal blood pressure. According to research, magnesium lowers blood pressure by 12 points, and it is one of 3 microminerals (along with calcium and zinc) responsible for about 300 biochemical reactions in the body.
Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle contractions, seizures, convulsions, heart rhythm disturbances, personality changes, and coronary spasms. Cashews, almonds, whole grains, legumes, seeds, green leafy vegetables and dairy products are some of the rich sources of magnesium. Managing them can be difficult; therefore, magnesium supplements will do the job better, and supplements like magnesium glycinate are readily available.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
