The Key Benefits of Magnesium
Though it’s not as popular as other nutrients and minerals the body needs, there’s no doubt that magnesium plays an important role when it comes to the human body.
The problem is a lot of people don’t get enough magnesium in their diets, making them susceptible to several health conditions related to magnesium deficiency.
Why is magnesium important to our health?
Here are some of the reasons.
Boost Exercise Performance
Studies have shown that magnesium helps boost exercise performance not just for athletes, but also for the elderly as well as people suffering from chronic diseases.
One particular study showed how several volleyball players experienced improvement both in their arm movements and jumping after including 250mg of magnesium in their daily diet.
Magnesium allows blood sugar to move into the muscles and helps dispose of lactate at the same time which can build up during exercise resulting in fatigue and exhaustion.
Reduce Blood Pressure
Magnesium is also good at lowering blood pressure.
Studies have shown people who took 450 mg of magnesium per day experienced a decrease in diastolic and systolic blood pressure.
This is especially useful for people with elevated levels, making magnesium intake an absolute must.
Prevent Migraine
Migraines can be debilitating. Not only will you experience pain but you may also experience other symptoms like vomiting, nausea, as well as light and noise sensitivity.
Research has shown that most people who suffer from migraines are magnesium deficient leading them to the conclusion that magnesium may be an effective treatment for such.
There have been a few studies done that support this conclusion. It has even been suggested that magnesium can both help prevent and treat migraines.
If you’re experiencing a couple of migraine symptoms, it makes sense to eat more food that is rich in magnesium.
Reduce and Prevent Inflammation
It’s been said that inflammation promotes a host of health problems like obesity, chronic disease, and aging, making it a health hazard everyone should avoid.
Several studies have shown that there is a direct connection between magnesium intake and chronic inflammation.
In one of those studies, it was found that children who have the highest levels of the inflammatory marker CRP were those who had the lowest blood magnesium levels.
Fights Depression
One of magnesium’s most significant roles is related to brain function.
This is because studies have shown that having low levels of magnesium can increase the risk of depression.
For instance, studies made on over 8,000 people showed that people under the age of 65 who had low magnesium levels had a 22% greater risk of developing depression.
Though many have expressed the need for further research, a number of experts believe that low magnesium content can lead to depression and other mental illnesses.
Final Thoughts
Given the host of health benefits it has to offer, there’s no question that magnesium is essential to good health.
Make sure to include magnesium-rich foods in your diet. If this is not possible, taking magnesium supplements would be a good alternative. Do consult your doctor first though before going this route just to be sure.
