Magnesium is a mineral that’s integral to almost every metabolic function in the body. As one of the electrolyte minerals (along with potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, and phosphorus), it’s responsible for carrying electrical charges between cells to regulate fluid levels, muscle contraction, and heartbeat. Magnesium benefits also include better bone health.
Magnesium is present in trace amounts in many foods that we eat. The scary thing is that deficiency in this very important mineral has become common and is on the rise. Dr. Norman Shealy is a world-renown neuroscientist, the first physician to specialize in chronic pain management, and founder of the Shealy Institute, the first pain and stress management facility in the United States. (1)
Dr. Shealy says:
“Every known illness is associated with a magnesium deficiency…magnesium is the most critical mineral required for electrical stability of every cell in the body. A magnesium deficiency may be responsible for more diseases than any other nutrient.” (2)
According to a 2005 analysis of American adults’ consumption of magnesium, 68% didn’t get enough each day. Furthermore, 19% had less than half of the recommended daily intake (350-400mg). (3)
Calcium and magnesium work together in the body: if there is too much of one and not enough of the other, metabolic systems fail. The typical North American diet includes too much calcium in relation to the amount of magnesium. The optimal ratio is 1:1 but our diets are more like 6:1.
When there is too much calcium and not enough magnesium, calcium builds up in cells (called calcification) and can cause osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and other diseases. (4)
In addition to all the critical jobs magnesium performs for muscles and fluids, did you know it is a mineral critical for brain health and function?
7 Magnesium Benefits for Brain Function
Magnesium deficiency can cause brain fog, headaches, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. It is a very important mineral for your brain and magnesium benefits your whole body.
1. Cognition and Memory
2. Mood and Stress
3. Insomnia
4. Blood Sugar
5. Bones and Joints
6. Heart Health
7. Detoxification