It’s a well-known fact that a diet rich in micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, is good for health and overall well-being. However, a few minerals are as crucial as magnesium. Some nutritionists have even hailed magnesium as the king of minerals. Well, for a mineral that’s the fourth most abundant in the human body, magnesium is no shabby.
This vital mineral plays several critical roles in brain function, immune system, and hormonal balance, to mention a few. The trouble, however, is that most people don’t get sufficient amount of magnesium, even if they consume a healthy diet. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly 80 percent of people are deficient in magnesium.
Here are seven benefits of magnesium that are backed by scientific research.
#1. Plays an Important Part in Several Biochemical Processes
There’s a big reason why everyone needs plenty of magnesium. Turns out, just about every cell in the human body contains magnesium and requires it to function without a hitch. That’s because the mineral acts as an activator or cofactor (helper molecule) in over 600 biochemical processes involving enzymes.
Protein formation, energy production, gene maintenance, muscle movements, and nervous system regulation are just but a few biochemical reactions in which magnesium plays a critical role.
#2. Strengthens Bones
Nearly 60 percent of magnesium in the human body is located in bones where it boosts absorption of calcium. What’s more, the mineral plays an important role in the activation of Vitamin D in the kidneys. Even better, ideal intake of dietary fusion magnesium has been associated with higher bone density, stronger bones, and a reduced risk of arthritis and osteoporosis.
#3. Good for a Healthy Heart
Again, magnesium is found aplenty in almost all cells, including muscle tissue. As such, the mineral is critical to retaining the health, plasticity, and robustness of heart muscles. The good news is that regular intake of magnesium has been linked with a lower risk of heart attack, atherosclerosis, and hypertension.
#4. Boosts Exercise Performance
Athletes need 10-20 percent more magnesium during exercise — and for a good reason. The mineral not only helps eliminate lactic acid which can build up in the muscles during heavy workouts and cause pain but also increases blood sugar supply to the muscle cells.
#5. It’s Essential for Snappy Brain Function and Health
Magnesium plays an important role in brain health and function. As such, increased intake can uplift mood and increase the levels of “feel good” neurotransmitters, two things that can help people beat depression, stress, and anxiety.
#6. Helps Fight Against Type 2 Diabetes
Studies have shown that nearly half of diabetics are deficient in magnesium, making it hard for insulin to regulate blood sugar.
#7. Magnesium Boasts of Great Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Low levels of magnesium have been associated with chronic inflammation, which is the biggest culprit in many cases of obesity, aging, and sometimes cancer.
There you have it — 7 key benefits of magnesium. Getting enough of this wonderful mineral is crucial for maintaining good health and enjoying overall well-being. Those who are deficient can consume magnesium-rich foods or take magnesium supplements.
