The Benefits of Magnesium

So you want to know what the benefits of magnesium are. First, a little bit of information about this mineral. Magnesium is classified as a Major mineral. Even though it isn't as prominent as some of the other major minerals, it plays a role in about 300 biochemical processes that take place inside the body.

Roughly one-half of the body's supply can be found in the bones. The cells that make up the body's organs and other body tissues store the balance, except for the small amount that's found in the blood. Like calcium and phosphorus, this mineral is needed to properly develop and maintain the skeletal system. Specifically, magnesium is crucial to the body's ability to absorb calcium and it also helps regulate calcium levels.

Where the heart is concerned, this mineral is just as important. It helps to regulate the heart's rhythm which reduces the risks of developing arrhythmias. It also helps to reduce blood pressure, greatly lowering the risks associated with heart disease. Studies centering on its ability to lower cholesterol levels are ongoing and show promising results.

Magnesium plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and it's believed to be involved in the way insulin is released and the way it behaves in general. Its role in diabetes is also being studied and it seems there is a link between diabetes and a deficiency of this mineral.

Magnesium helps keep the blood's pH levels in balance by controlling the amount of acid in the blood.

Magnesium helps keep muscles relaxed and it also helps relax the mind. Muscle tension, anxiety and even headaches and migraines can all be kept under better control when the body has sufficient levels of this mineral. As you can see there are many benefits of magnesium.

Without it, the body would not be able to produce serotonin, the 'feel good' neurotransmitter. If you're looking for a natural way to control such conditions as hyperactivity, post traumatic stress disorder or anxiety you may benefit by ensuring you are providing your body with the recommended daily allowance of this multi-purpose mineral.

For adult men, the recommended daily requirement is 400 mg/day. Women should get 310 mg/day. Pregnant women should increase their intake to 350 to 400 mg/day.

Dark green vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli and avocado are excellent sources of magnesium. Whole grains, legumes, black beans, brown rice, lentils, almonds, cashews, peanuts and peanut butter, bananas, soybeans, wheat bran and bran flakes, lean meats, dried figs, halibut, crab and sardines are other good sources. There also is a significant amount of magnesium in hard tap water. By definition, hard water contains a lot of minerals. If you have hard water where you live, be sure to take advantage of this source!

The first signs of a magnesium deficiency include nausea, vomiting, a loss of appetite, fatigue and a feeling of weakness. As the deficiency progresses, a person can develop an irregular heartbeat, heart spasms, changes in personality, tingling and numbness and muscle cramps. There may even be a decrease of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. As mentioned above, deficiencies may also lead to heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.

These are just a few of the reasons why you should always remember the benefits of magnesium and how it can help your body.

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