Magnesium plays many important roles in the body, including over 300 processes in the body.
- Maintaining normal muscle and nerve function: Magnesium is necessary for the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. It helps muscles to contract and relax, and it plays a role in transmitting nerve impulses.
- Keeping a healthy heart: Magnesium helps to regulate the heart’s rhythm and blood pressure.
- Building strong bones: Magnesium is necessary for the proper formation and maintenance of bones. It plays a role in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, which are both necessary for healthy bones.
- Regulating blood sugar levels: Magnesium is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and glucose,
- Production of energy: Magnesium is involved in the production of energy in the body and in the metabolism of nutrients.
- Supporting immune system: Magnesium plays a role in the immune system and stress response.
There are several factors that can prevent dietary magnesium from being absorbed properly in the body
- High fiber diet: A diet high in fiber can decrease the amount of magnesium that is absorbed, as fiber can bind to minerals and prevent them from being absorbed.
- High calcium intake: High calcium intake can interfere with magnesium absorption as they compete for the same absorption sites in the gut.
- High Phosphorus intake: High phosphorus intake can also interfere with magnesium absorption, as phosphorus can bind to magnesium and prevent it from being absorbed.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used for acid reflux, diuretics, and certain antibiotics, can interfere with magnesium absorption.
- Alcohol consumption: Long term alcohol consumption can lead to malabsorption of magnesium and other nutrients.
Magnesium plays a number of important roles in maintaining brain function. Some of the ways that magnesium can help with brain function include
- Regulating neurotransmitters: Magnesium is involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. It helps to regulate the balance of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a role in mood.
- Supporting cognitive function: Magnesium is necessary for the proper functioning of the brain and is involved in learning and memory processes.
- Protecting against neuronal stress: Magnesium can act as part of neuroprotective system,
- Helping in better sleep: Magnesium can help to promote relaxation and sleep by reducing the activity of the stress hormone cortisol and promoting the production of melatonin.
