WHY WE LOVE MAGNESIUM
(AND WHY YOU SHOULD TOO)
Magnesium is an essential mineral for all hormonal conditions and is involved with over 300 biochemical actions in the body
〰️ it soothes and calms your nervous system and aids with sleep
〰️ it regulates your HPA axis and improves the function of both insulin and thyroid hormone
〰️ it is anti-inflammatory and promotes the healthy metabolism of oestrogen
〰️ it helps to relax smooth muscle and decreases cramping
〰️ it is theorised to decrease the risk of retrograde menstruation associated with endometriosis
You can find magnesium in food sources such as nuts, seeds and leafy green vegetables, but for most of us, that food supply is not enough.
Why?
Because we live in the modern world, which is stressful, and stress causes our body to dump magnesium in order to rev up our nervous system and help us deal with whatever stressful situation you are experiencing.
In theory, this would be helpful, except that we typically move from one stressor to another, without the opportunity to replenish our magnesium through diet. Enter: magnesium powder supplements.
FAQs about Magnesium
Can I test for magnesium deficiency?
In short, no. Most of your magnesium is actually inside your cells, so cannot be detected with a serum, urine or hair test. It is possible to test for red cell magnesium, but in reality, the test is quite unnecessary. Living in the modern world, surrounded by stress, it’s reasonable to assume that you could benefit from some extra magnesium supplementation. The easiest solution is to try some, and see how you feel.
Is all magnesium the same?
It would be nice, but unfortunately not. There are two components to consider; the form of the supplement that you take and the form of the magnesium.
SUPPLEMENT FORM:
Powder > tablets
The tablet form requires your stomach acid to ionise the mineral, resulting in less absorption and more excretion
MOLECULAR FORM:
Chelate or bisglycinate > oxide, chloride or sulfate forms (because they’re not easily absorbed)
Magnesium in supplements comes bound to carrier molecules, which can effect the rate of absorption, excretion and even the side effects you can experience.
What about sprays or salts?
It’s also worth noting that you can also absorb magnesium topically. Oils are great for targeted relief of cramps; such as cramping legs overnight or abdominal cramps during a period. Epsom salts can be used in a bath (or a footbath if you don’t have a full sized tub). The other way to absorb magnesium through your skin is swimming in the ocean!
Why does my chiro talk to me about magnesium?
It’s because many of the conditions we see in practice (muscular aches, neck pain, back pain, headaches, injuries etc) have associated inflammatory changes and are exacerbated by stress – and amongst other things, magnesium can help with this.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before self-prescribing a supplement to ensure the right dose for your body.
References available on request.