Magnesium for summer
Magnesium supplementation is one of our most frequently suggested supplementations to patients for a variety of reasons ranging from muscle cramping and chronic tightness to anxiety and sleep.
What is magnesium? How is it used in the body?
Magnesium is an extremely common element found on earth, and in nature it is always found combined with other elements, never in pure form. You’ll find magnesium involved in the formation of several minerals, and a single atom of Mg in the center of the chlorophyll molecule, which allows plant species to do photosynthesis to turn sunlight into energy.
In the human/animal body, magnesium is required for numerous cellular processes that are required for healthy functioning. Magnesium is required for DNA and RNA synthesis, reproduction, and protein synthesis, and is essential for the regulation of muscular contraction, blood pressure, insulin metabolism, heart function and nerve transmission. Magnesium is also involved in the synthesis and absorption of Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone, which have far-ranging effects throughout the body. Without sufficient magnesium in the bloodstream, multiple processes that are essential are limited.
What can magnesium supplementation address?
Magnesium deficiency is extremely common in the Western diet due to a number of factors including processed foods, demineralized water, and nutrient-deficient soil conditions. Taking oral magnesium has long been clinically recommended for a variety of complaints including:
Hypertension
Insomnia
Anxiety
Irritability/overactive startle reflex
Diabetes
Metabolic Syndrome
Headache
Muscle pain and spasm
Osteoporosis
Magnesium-rich foods are easy to add to your diet. Some of the richest sources are pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, cashews, black beans and edamame.
Our favorite magnesium supplements in the office are Magnesium Glycinate, Magnesium Citrate, and Magnesium Malate. We also frequently recommend Metagenics’ Myocalm Plus formula, which combines magnesium, calcium, passionflower and valerian root for added stress and anxiety relief. If you’re interested in starting a magnesium supplement, ask your healthcare provider or acupuncturist which version is right for your needs.