Magnesium
Benefits of Magnesium
- Energy
- Muscle function
- Nervous system
- Bones and teeth
- Psychological function
- Form: Citrate, Bisglycinate
- Food source: Dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, wholegrains, legumes, bananas and dark chocolate.
What is Magnesium?
Magnesium is a 'Superhero' of minerals. It is an essential nutrient in all human tissues, particularly in your bones. It does pretty much everything in your body.
A deficiency in Magnesium (known as 'hypomagnesaemia') is not very common. According to the UK's National Diet and Nutrition Survey, however, one in eight adults and one quarter of teenage girls have magnesium intakes below the lowest recommended level.
What does Magnesium do?
Magnesium contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to electrolyte balance, to normal muscle function and to normal functioning of the nervous system.
Magnesium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, and researchers have looked at the relationship between magnesium and bone density. Our muscles also need magnesium to contract and relax normally.
Magnesium is needed both for our energy during the day and as we wind down at the end of it. It is essential for the functioning of the enzymes that break down our food, giving us our energy. Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and to normal psychological function. Its role in sleep has also been the subject of a systematic review.
Magnesium contributes to normal protein synthesis and to electrolyte balance. Proteins are required to maintain the structure of the cells. As they wear out over time, we make new proteins, and Magnesium is essential in this process, called 'protein synthesis'. Electrolytes, as you probably guessed, have an electrical charge, which the body uses for functions such as contracting muscles and transmitting messages through the nervous system.
Magnesium bisglycinate is a chelated form of magnesium where magnesium is bound to the amino acid glycine. It is a well-studied form, generally considered to be well absorbed and gentle on the stomach.
You may also enjoy reading 'Why is bone health so important in menopause?', 'How do I know if I'm deficient in Magnesium?' and 'Restless Legs Syndrome: Causes and how to manage it'.
Sage Leaf Extract
Sage is a Mediterranean herb that has also been used in traditional medicine for mental health and performance.
Schisandra
Schisandra has adaptogenic properties that can help increase the body's resistance to stress, and the body's ability to recover physical and mental wellbeing.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, which helps your body to deal with stressful situations, support emotional resilience and relaxation.
L-Glycine
L-Glycine is an amino acid that has a calming and regenerative effect, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, enhancing sleep quality, and reducing feelings of tiredness during the day.
Maca Root Extract
Maca, a hardy plant from South America, is a popular botanical studied for supporting physical and mental wellbeing, stamina, and feelings of vitality.
Maitake Mushroom (Grifola Frondosa)
Studies show the polysaccharides in Maitake Mushrooms possess hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative qualities.
Manganese
Manganese is an important trace mineral, like zinc, copper and iodine, meaning that our bodies require it in small amounts for a variety of crucial processes.
Mung Bean
Mung Beans provide a host of nutrients including Calcium, B-Vitamins, Copper, Magnesium and Zinc, supporting healthy energy, brain function and mental performance.
