Horray for Magnesium in Your Diet!

The Benefits of Magnesium in Your Diet

Magnesium is not something we typically talk about in dietary conversation, but it is an important nutrient for our overall health. This essential mineral is involved in a multitude of biochemical reactions in the body, playing a part in everything from muscle function and energy production to bone health and mood regulation.  Making sure you have good sources of magnesium rich foods can offer multiple health benefits that will support the physical body and your mental health. Dr. Aaron Workman, a chiropractor at one of the highest rated car accident medical facilities in the Lexington area, discusses some important aspects of magnesium and how it helps.

1. Supports Muscle and Nerve Function
Magnesium helps regulate muscle contractions and nerve signals, which are important for physical activity. Having an ample supply of magnesium can prevent muscle cramps and spasms, making it an important nutrient for athletes and anyone who engages in regular exercise. Additionally, magnesium plays a role in relaxing the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and promote better sleep.

2. Bone Health
While calcium often gets the spotlight for bone health, magnesium is equally important. It aids in the absorption of calcium and helps regulate its levels in the body. Magnesium contributes to the core structure of bones and is involved in the activation of vitamin D, another important nutrient for bone strength. A diet rich in magnesium can help prevent osteoporosis and maintain bone density as you age.

3. Enhances Heart Health
Magnesium is a heart-healthy mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, supports a steady heartbeat, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It relaxes blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Research suggests that adequate magnesium intake is associated with a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes.

4. Boosts Energy Levels
Magnesium plays a key role in energy production. It is involved in the process of converting food into energy by activating the body’s primary energy molecule. Without sufficient magnesium, you may experience fatigue and a lack of energy. Including magnesium-rich foods in your diet can help sustain your energy levels throughout the day.

5. Supports Mental Health
In regard to your mental health, magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters. This regulation has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. Furthermore, magnesium plays a role in stress management by controlling the release of stress hormones (Cortisol). Having optimum magnesium intake can contribute to better mental clarity, mood stability, and fight against stress.

6. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Magnesium is crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. It helps regulate insulin which is the hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar. Studies have shown that magnesium deficiency is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Including magnesium-rich foods in your diet, such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Ensuring magnesium-rich foods into your daily diet can have a wonderful effect on your overall health. The triad of muscle, bone and heart health are just a few reasons to reexamine your magnesium sources, and the increase in mental well-being is the icing on the cake.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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