Vitamins and minerals are essential for the human body. Many people tend to ignore the importance of some elements, which leads to their deficiency and resultant illnesses. That’s the reason doctors advise taking such items in appropriate quantities, either through food or supplements.
One of the most vital elements of the human body is Magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral whose primary purpose is to normalize blood pressure, strengthen bones, and maintain a steady heartbeat. It regulates muscle and nerve function and blood sugar levels with protein synthesis and energy metabolism.
Magnesium is a necessity
As per experts, a lower intake of Magnesium leads to elevated inflammation markers. The inflammation further is linked to heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
The consumption of Magnesium and other minerals can prevent even high blood pressure in people suffering from pre-hypertension. Doctors prescribe magnesium injections or supplements in pregnancy, eclampsia, and asthma attacks. Magnesium is also the dominant additive in antacids and laxatives.
Foods that contain Magnesium
Some natural resources of Magnesium are green, leafy vegetables, nuts, whole grain cereals, beans, peas, soya bean, oats, salmon, lentils, banana, avocado, and broccoli.
Read – Recommended dietary allowance of magnesium
Health benefits of Magnesium
- Doctors recommend Magnesium to prevent several diseases. Deficiencies of this mineral are linked to diabetes due to its role in insulin production. In the case of diabetic patients with Magnesium deficiency, elevated blood glucose levels lead to the body shedding Magnesium through urine.
- Studies indicate that Magnesium is required to relax the blood vessels, foster bone development, produce energy, and transport calcium and potassium.
- The deficiency of Magnesium also leads to migraines, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and noise. Additionally, the brain’s biochemistry needs Magnesium too. It activates alterations in the brain’s synapses and neuronal connections for transmitting nerve signals. Hence, Magnesium fights depression also.
- Many women suffer from one of the other physical and psychological symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome. As per medical experts, Magnesium, along with vitamin B6 supplements, helps to alleviate PMS symptoms like anxiety, bloating, irritability, nausea, abdominal discomfort, low back pain, acne, muscular pain, and headaches.
- Last but not least, Magnesium is a medium to move glucose into our blood, brain, and muscles while we exercise. Magnesium discards lactic acid, which is built during exercising. This acid leads to pain and reduced performance during physical activity. Therefore Magnesium is a beneficial element for enhanced exercise performance.
Side effects of Magnesium
Just as a coin has two sides, the over-consumption of Magnesium comes with drawbacks. A high dose of this mineral may cause nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. It might react with other medicines, too, so one should consult medical practitioners before its intake.
Read – Pros and Cons of Magnesium
To Conclude
Magnesium is a nutrient that plays a critical part in our body’s functions by aiding enzymatic reactions. But excessive intake of this mineral’s supplements is toxic. Therefore, doctors suggest having magnesium-rich foods to avoid any deficiency.