Why we are being told magnesium is a must have in your diet

ByJasmime Kaur

October 20, 2023

Magnesium isn’t something to be looked upon Iightly. A lack of it can impact your life in a big way and it is considered a superhero mineral by many.

Nutritionist Marissa Meshulam says that magnesium is responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions in the body.

“It serves as a cofactor, helping enzymes carry out various reactions in the body.” This includes blood sugar regulation nerve and muscle function, keeping bones strong and immunity good. It even keeps your heartbeat steady.

Lauren Twigge Nutrition owner, Lauren Twigge says that this mineral is needed in larger amounts than other minerals so it is important to get sufficient amounts of it.

The average daily recommended amount of magnesium is 310-320 mg for adult women and 400-420 mg for adult men. Most people can get enough through food if you practice eating mindfully but people who are using diuretics, eat a poor diet, have Chrohn’s or celiac disease or have complications with type 2 diabetes are also at risk for magnesium deficiency.

“When you are deficient in magnesium, certain body functions tend to slow down or stop working altogether and can result in general symptoms like loss of appetite, fatigue and nausea. If allowed to worse, more significant symptoms like body numbness, abnormal muscle contractions, irregular heart rhythms and even seizures can occur,” says Twigge.

Magnesium is responsible for converting food into energy, protein formation, gene maintenance, muscle movements and nervous system regulation.

Magnesium helps combat depression

One study in 2020 shows a correlation between stress and magnesium. Stress may deplete magnesium and increase one’s susceptibility to stress and depression.

Taking 500 mg a day can lead to significant improvements in depression symptoms in patients.

Anti-inflammatory

Low magnesium is linked to increased levels of inflammation which plays a big role in aging and illness.

Migraine attacks

Migraines are very painful often resulting in nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and noise. Studies also show that many people who have migraines often have a magnesium deficiency.

PMS

Those suffering from pre-menstrual syndrome may want to look into magnesium supplementation.

This is because magnesium fluctuates during the menstrual cycle worsening symptoms in those who have a deficiency.