Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in our body and around 60% of it is found in bones. For a healthy functioning of mind and body, we require minerals too, one of them being magnesium. It is involved in more than 500 reactions in our body and some of them being energy creation, formation of protein, nervous system regulation, maintenance of gene and many more. Here are 5 health benefits of magnesium and why it should be taken in an adequate amount.
1. Boosts Workouts
Magnesium plays an important role in making sure that your performance when it comes to exercising is better. Since our body is working all the muscles during workouts, it requires 10-15% more magnesium than at rest. It makes sure the glucose in the blood is utilized correctly into our muscles and disposes lactate that can buildup in muscles and cause soreness.
2. Helps Fight Depression
Magnesium is involved in a lot of reactions in the body, but most importantly it plays an important role in ensuring proper functioning of the brain and mood. Low levels of magnesium increases the risk of depression. In modern day food, there is a lack of magnesium content required for daily intake, which could be one of the reasons why depression is more relevant in today’s day and age. Supplementing magnesium everyday could improve mood, brain function and fight symptoms of depression.
3. Lowers Blood Pressure
Magnesium also plays an important part in keeping the heart healthy by lowering blood pressure for those who often suffer from high blood pressure problems. There are many reasons why high blood pressure occurs, but it occurs when blood flows through the arteries at a higher pressure. To make sure that blood is flowing smoothly, magnesium is required.
4. Has Anti-inflammatory Properties
Inflammation occurs when the body is gearing up to fight any harmful bacteria or viruses. The liver produces something known as C-reactive protein (CRP) to fight illness. High levels of CRP in blood leads to inflammation. Magnesium can fight inflammation by reducing CRP in the blood. Low levels of magnesium has been linked to chronic inflammation.
5. Improves PMS Symptoms
PMS, also known as pre-menstrual syndrome can be very difficult for most women as they experience bloating, abdominal pain, headaches, mood swings, constipation/diarrhea, acne, breast soreness and many more. Taking good amount of magnesium during this time reduces water retention, which is the major cause of bloating, improves mood and reduces irritability.