THE POWER OF MAGNESIUM AND DEFICIENCY

November 11, 2022

Magnesium is essential mineral and plays a big part in many vital body processes, most of us don’t have nearly enough of it in our system. In fact, magnesium deficiency is very common in over 60% of people. And if you think this is nothing serious, we’ll tell you why you need to take it more seriously.

MAGNESIUM IS INVOLVED IN OVER 300 PROCESSES

As a cofactor, magnesium participates in more than 300 enzyme systems involved in protein synthesis, cell division, the functioning of muscles, nerve cells, and the heart, and regulation of blood glucose and blood pressure. It is necessary for energy metabolism, especially in oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis.
It also participates in maintaining healthy bones and teeth, the functioning of the nervous system, as well as normal psychological functioning and electrolyte balance. At the same time, it is essential for the normal formation of DNA and RNA.

Lack of magnesium affects the balance of electrolytes in the body, increases the risk of heart diseases and strokes, and reduces serum levels of calcium and potassium. A minor deficiency can cause confusion, lack of appetite, muscle cramps, lethargy, high blood pressure, and heart problems. Magnesium deficiency is also associated with an increased incidence of metabolic syndrome components.

YOUR SPORTS PERFORMANCE MAY DEPEND ON IT

Studies show that the more active you are, the more magnesium you need. Scientists have linked high blood magnesium levels to improved muscle performance.

This means you can improve your performance by ensuring an adequate supply of this vital mineral. According to studies, magnesium appears to lower blood lactate levels. Lactate (lactic acid) is produced mainly during intense physical exercise. It can limit muscle performance and lead to faster fatigue if it accumulates.

Additionally, exercising without sufficient magnesium will increase oxygen consumption and heart rate. The mineral also plays a vital role in strengthening your immune system, as it works similarly to an antioxidant, strengthening your defenses and protecting you from disease.

So, if you’re a sports enthusiast, magnesium is practically essential.

IT MAY HELP WITH DEPRESSION AND MOOD

Scientists also associate a lack of the mineral magnesium with the risk of developing depression, although the mechanism of this connection is still not explained thoroughly. The first clinical study of its kind has shown that the consumption of magnesium can improve mild to moderate depression symptoms.

In it, a group of 126 patients with depression (average age 52 years; 38% men) were monitored, who received a nutritional supplement in the form of magnesium chloride (MgCl2) orally for six weeks. The study showed that a daily dose of 248 mg of elemental magnesium reduced symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

The beneficial effects of magnesium on symptoms of depression and anxiety were evident after 14 days of taking a dietary magnesium supplement. They were traceable until the end of the six-week study. Although more research is needed for the final conclusion, we think it shows much promise.

MAGNESIUM AND VITAMIN D ARE CLOSELY CONNECTED

You all heard about vitamin D and its importance, but did you know that research shows that half of the world’s population suffers from vitamin D deficiency in the body? Many people have been recommended by their doctors or other health professionals to take vitamin D as dietary supplements, raising global awareness of the importance of vitamin D, but magnesium remains overlooked. The importance of magnesium deficiency in a large part of the world’s population is underestimated, and this problem remains unsolved.

All the enzymes involved in the metabolism of vitamin D require magnesium for their functioning, so it is essential to provide enough magnesium, as this is the only way vitamin D will work beneficially for the body. Research has confirmed that some people cannot increase their vitamin D levels despite consuming high doses of this vitamin in the form of a dietary supplement. The reason is that vitamin D metabolism stops when magnesium is insufficient.

Magnesium assists in the activation of vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis to influence the growth and maintenance of bones. All enzymes that metabolise vitamin D seem to require magnesium, which acts as a cofactor in the enzymatic reactions in the liver and kidneys.
Deficiency in either of these nutrients is reported to be associated with various disorders, such as skeletal deformities, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that the recommended amount of magnesium is consumed to obtain the optimal benefits of vitamin D.

SHOULD YOU START TAKING MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS?

The answer is, in most cases, a sound yes. There is a high chance that you are magnesium deficient, and you can do very cheap blood tests to ensure it. Added magnesium supplementation can do so much for your health, and if you’re an athlete, our Yerba Mate natural energy drink with added magnesium citrate will be perfect for you.
Being healthy is easier than you think; you just need to pay attention to details.

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