The Importance of Magnesium

Did you know that magnesium deficiency is common among people with muscle tension and related pain, including headaches, migraines, menstrual cramps and muscle spasms?  

Magnesium is an important mineral that performs hundreds of important roles of the body. One important role is that it helps relaxes the muscles. It also helps calcium absorption and plays an important role in the formation and strengthening of teeth and bones. Magnesium also supports a healthy immune system, regulates blood glucose levels, helps nerve and muscle function and helps promote cardiovascular health. 

One very common sign that you are deficient in magnesium is that you crave chocolate. Its deficiency can cause major problems such as depression, diabetes, and menopausal symptoms.  Other symptoms include, anxiety, back and neck pain, fatigue, migraines, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, vomiting, insomnia, abnormal heart rhythms, diarrhea, and muscle twitching. Stress can also cause depletion of magnesium in your body.  

Poor nutrient absorption may also be a factor in magnesium, calcium and B vitamins deficiency. Taking your supplements or food with bitters or a splash of vinegar can help boost absorption as well as healing your gut. 

Generally powdered (to be mixed with water) or liquid magnesium supplements are the most effective for preventing and treating muscle pain. Magnesium works well when it’s taken with calcium and B vitamins. Calcium helps contract the muscles and B vitamins helps properly absorb and utilize magnesium. 

The best food sources of magnesium include cacao, seeds, nuts, leady greens, fish, beans, lentils and whole grains.