Magnesium is a powerhouse mineral which is responsible for over 300 processes in the body. It is one of the seven essential macronutrients, meaning that it is one of the necessary minerals needed in larger amounts. Research indicates that a large percentage of the population is deficient in Magnesium and many aren’t consuming enough with their daily diets alone.
Magnesium may play a large role in mental wellness and health. Low levels of magnesium are linked to higher rates of mood disorders like anxiety and depression. This may be due to the fact that magnesium levels affect the brain’s ability to cope with stress by regulating the amount of cortisol produced by the body. More so, magnesium helps block the activity of stimulating neurotransmitters and binds to more calming receptors.
According to the Sleep Foundation, Magnesium can also help you sleep better by promoting longer, more restful sleep. This mineral plays a large role in sleep regulation and may help insomnia sufferers as well. Magnesium helps support healthy levels of GABA which is a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep.
Other evidence may support that those who suffer from chronic migraines may be low in magnesium. Chronic migraine sufferers may have frequent migraines due to the body’s inability to properly absorb magnesium through food or because they may have a genetic condition in which they excrete higher than normal magnesium amounts. Magnesium might help alleviate symptoms of migraines due to magnesium’s effect on neurotransmitters and its ability to restrict blood vessel constriction. Research has shown that magnesium supplementation may be a beneficial preventative measure or can be used successfully in conjunction with medication to help prevent migraines from occurring.
Chronic pain sufferers may find some relief through adequate magnesium levels as well. Naturally, magnesium promotes muscle relaxation which helps those who struggle with symptoms of pain. Magnesium also plays a role in downregulating the brain’s reactivity to pain. It also promotes muscle relaxation by easing tension and spasms by moderating blood vessels.
During times of high physical or mental stress, magnesium is excreted from the body in larger amounts. Our bodies ability to react to stress within the body means it must meet these demands by utilizing our stores of nutrition. For those that don’t consume enough magnesium through diet, you may be depleting your levels even more during times of physical or mental exertion.