A vital mineral for numerous daily biochemical functions
Magnesium is a mineral which helps with many functions and biochemical reactions that our body conducts on a daily basis. This is why magnesium is in the top five for both the most needed, and the most abundantly found minerals within our body. Unfortunately, the majority of us tend to have a deficiency in this lovely mineral which in turn can cause our body to not function at an optimal state.
Magnesium is predominantly found in our bones, roughly 60%, and the rest is found within muscles, soft tissues and blood. Most chiropractors will advise clients to either start taking magnesium as a supplement or increase the volume taken within their diet in order to help as a natural muscle relaxant, to improve nerve conduction/function and to aid in soft tissue healing (this pairs greatly with getting chiropractic care). Typically, clients also notice additional benefits to the above (whilst noting these are naturally subject to variance from person to person).
Some of the additional benefits to increasing magnesium intake are;
- Anti inflammatory properties
- Boosts exercise performance – including rest and repair
- Better quality of sleep
- Reduction in risk of type 2 diabetes or insulin dependency
- Helps battle signs of depression
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduction in symptoms of PMS in women
- Helps prevent migraines
- Relief from constipation
Supplements are usually the easiest option to increase mineral/nutrient intake in our body. There are many forms of magnesium available, but the best in regards to absorption is usually magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium orotate and magnesium carbonate. Its preferable to take magnesium supplements at night time before sleep to maximise its benefits as you rest.
An alternative option is to increase the intake of foods high in magnesium content such as; pumpkin seeds, spinach, dark chocolate, quinoa, black beans, almonds and cashews to name a few.
The recommended daily intake of magnesium is around 400mg per day for men and 310mg per day for women. The dosage can be increased depending on your doctor’s recommendations for your specific needs.
Next time you are in for your regular adjustment ask your chiropractor whether increasing your magnesium intake would be beneficial to you!
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