Among the 7 essential minerals the body requires in substantial levels, perhaps magnesium is the most overlooked. The foods we consume only account for about half of the recommended daily intake of magnesium, meaning many of us are deficient. Magnesium supplementation provides a boost of this vitally important nutrient, giving us the magnesium required to lend a helping hand to the hundreds of enzymes responsible for chemical reactions impacting all aspects of our health. Here are 5 benefits of magnesium supplements:
1. Healthy Regulation of Blood Sugar & Pressure
Patients with type 2 diabetes often rely on magnesium to help manage their condition, as roughly half of these folks have low levels of magnesium, which can negatively affect the body’s ability to correctly regulate blood sugar levels. Magnesium supplements have been found to increase insulin sensitivity, which helps the body use insulin more effectively to regulate blood sugar, a 2019 scientific review found. Magnesium supplements can help to lower high blood pressure levels, keeping your heart healthy and strong while protecting against common heart-related conditions such as heart disease.
2. Strengthens Bones
Mommas across the country have long taught their kids to drink plenty of milk to build strong bones. Well, calcium isn’t the only mineral responsible for bone density! About 50-60% of magnesium in the human body is stored in the bones! Improved bone density is one of the many benefits of magnesium supplements. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to become fragile and weak. Appropriate levels of magnesium can help to prevent fractures and bone loss, making it a great supplement for seniors to add to their daily routine.
3. Can Improve Sleep
More folks who struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep are turning to magnesium to catch some zzzs. Magnesium is a natural sleep remedy, making it an attractive option for people with sleep concerns such as insomnia. Magnesium helps to relax the central nervous system and regulates neurotransmitters involved in sleep, like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Magnesium supplementation led to improved sleep quality and duration in a study of almost 4,000 adults!
4. Acts as Anti-Inflammatory
One of the benefits of magnesium supplements includes providing valuable anti-inflammatory support for the body! Low levels of magnesium are associated with increased levels of inflammation, which, over time, can lead to aging and chronic disease such as cancer, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Magnesium reduces the inflammation caused in response to infection, injury or irritation by calming this routine reaction. Magnesium supplements have been found to decrease inflammation markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6.
5. Helps to Manage Stress
Magnesium supplementation can help to manage stress in a variety of ways. Magnesium is known to lower cortisol levels, a steroid hormone that regulates the body’s response to stress. When cortisol levels are high, they can alter or even shut down bodily functions, negatively impacting areas such as the immune, digestive and reproductive systems. Magnesium can even be used to help both treat and prevent anxiety and depression. A 2017 study found that taking 248 mg of magnesium daily significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety.
Are you ready to enjoy these health benefits of magnesium supplements? Visit our online shop to find magnesium supplements as well as many more supplements related to all areas of health!
