BY DR. ANDREA PURCELL
Magnesium is required in over 300 biochemical reactions and has wide reaching effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and skeletal system.
Deficiency in magnesium ranks higher in the general population than any other mineral.
Most of the population is deficient in this essential mineral due to soil and water depletion. This inhibits our ability to access it through drinking water or plants that would absorb it through the soil. A number of studies have showed that Americans do not get the recommended amounts of magnesium through dietary intake. Average dietary intake is now 200mg/day compared to 500mg/day in 1900.
Magnesium is absorbed through the intestine into the blood where it is transported to other tissues in need. Good digestive health is important for mineral absorption. Poor digestive health equals poor mineral absorption. Medications aimed at “blocking acid” also block essential minerals like magnesium from being absorbed further leading to deficiencies.
In the cardiovascular system magnesium helps relax arteries, promote normal blood pressure and heart rhythm. It can be administered intravenously for elevated blood pressure, and to reduce constriction during a cardiac episode.
In the skeletal system, magnesium is involved in helping muscles relax and can be a lifesaver with continuous muscle cramping. In muscle cells, calcium constricts and magnesium releases. This happens all over the body, in heart tissue, in uterine constriction in PMS, it affects muscle performance in athletes, helps muscles repair, relaxes the nervous system, and helps with migraines.
Magnesium is also used by the pancreas in the production of insulin and is important for proper blood sugar balance in diabetics.
Stress affects Magnesium Levels
Magnesium is depleted during stress, as it is required during the fight or flight response. Considering the stress that we are all undergoing magnesium deficiencies can be more pronounced than before. In an intense, fast paced, ever changing world, it’s a good idea to supplement with magnesium. A good dose is between 200-300mg/day.
Take away
When you think of magnesium I want you to think calming, releasing, relaxing, flowing. This is what magnesium does for the body along with it being a very important co-factor for other reactions.
Magnesium is especially good for women, it helps to balance hormones, alleviate stress & muscle cramps, and promote a good night’s sleep. Heads up- magnesium in high doses relaxes the bowel so if you take too much loose stools will result.
Wishing You Well,
Dr. Purcell
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