Series: Nutrients and Body Health. (Part 3) - Magnesium

Magnesium is a crucial mineral that plays a vital role in your bodily functions.

It’s good for the brain.

• Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function and mood; low levels are linked to an increased risk of depression.
  
• People who have migraine headaches sometimes have low levels of magnesium in their blood and other tissues. Several small studies found that magnesium supplements can modestly reduce the frequency of migraines.
  

It’s good for bones.

• People with higher intakes of magnesium have a higher bone mineral density, which is important in reducing the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis.
  

It’s good for helping regulate blood sugar levels.

• People with higher amounts of magnesium in their diets tend to have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Magnesium helps the body break down sugars and might help reduce the risk of insulin resistance (a condition that leads to diabetes).
  

It helps with high blood pressure and heart disease.

• High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Magnesium supplements might decrease blood pressure, but only by a small amount. Some studies show that people who have more magnesium in their diets have a lower risk of some types of heart disease and stroke.
  

It’s good for muscle soreness.

• It has anti-inflammatory benefits, which may also help with arthritis.
  
• It’s good to help your muscles recover when you work out.
  

It may improve PMS symptoms.

• One study found that taking 300 mg of magnesium daily helped decrease bloating, depression, and anxiety in college students with PMS compared with a control group
  

Magnesium is good for overall body health.

For a list of magnesium rich foods - check out this link List of Magnesium Rich Foods


Resources: National Institutes of Health
Healthline - What are Health Benefits of Magnesium

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