The Health Benefits of Magnesium

Ever since we were young we have heard the importance of getting our daily dose of vitamins and minerals. One of most important minerals for the body is Magnesium. Magnesium is the fourth most abundant minerals in the body. It plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and therefore is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Healthy calcium absorption helps reduce and even reverse symptoms of osteoporosis. In addition Calcium and Magnesium in combination help to relieve PMS symptoms.

Another important benefit of Magnesium is its use to help stop preterm labor. Intravenous Magnesium is giving to women who go in to pre-term labor in order to help stop the contractions and allow the baby more time in the womb. It is extremely effective in stopping contractions in pregnant women when administered in a healthcare setting. The side effects are not the most pleasant but the outcome of a longer gestation is better for the baby.

Diets rich in Magnesium have been shown to help prevent migraines in patients diagnosed with chronic migraines. In addition to eating foods high in magnesium supplements are recommended to help prevent migraines. These can be found at most health and nutrition stores.

More Health Benefits of Magnesium:

Transmission of nerve impulses
Body temperature regulation
Body detox
Energy production
Lowers risk of cardiovascular disease
Regulates blood pressure
Helps treat diabetes by aiding in carbohydrate metabolism
Helps treat insomnia and depression

Magnesium can be found naturally in most nuts, especially almonds, whole grains, wheat germ, fish, and green leafy vegetables. It is also included in most daily vitamins available on the market. If using to treat conditions like migraines, supplements can be purchased at most health food and vitamin stores.

Magnesium deficiency is rare in normally healthy people because the kidneys limit the amount of magnesium excreted into the urine. Magnesium deficiency usually occurs in combination with low intake levels and certain health conditions that can deplete magnesium. Signs of Magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and weakness. As the deficiency progresses people experience numbness, tingling, muscles cramps and spasm, heart arrhythmias, low calcium levels and low potassium levels.

The mineral Magnesium plays an important role in everyday health and nutrition. Not only does it have its own health benefits, other vitamins and minerals rely on it is to aid in absorption. Whether you increase your natural Magnesium intake through food or through supplements, be sure to consult your doctor before starting any over the counter supplements as they can interact with certain medications.

More Healthy Foods to Add to your Diet:

Alicia can be found on her blog Moms Don’t Say That where she share recipes, tips, and musings from her life.

The Health Benefits of Magnesium