What’s All The Hype Around Magnesium?

Dr Jarryd Crisp-OSTEOPATH-Double Bachelor of Health Science/Applied Science (Osteopathy)

Magnesium is the fourth most common cation in the human Body. To break this down further, a cation is a molecule that possesses a positive electrical charge. It is extremely important for a number of physiological functions in the body. Around 99% of the magnesium in our body is located in muscles, bone and non-muscular soft tissue.

Some of the main roles magnesium has in the human body include,

• Metabolism and energy production
• Muscle contraction and relaxation
• Normal neurological function

Magnesium also contributes to,

• Regulating vascular tone
• The clotting process in blood
• Bone formation
• The structural function of proteins

Sources of magnesium

• Water
• Green vegetables- considered the main source of magnesium
• Nuts, seeds
• Fruit, meat, legumes and fish
• Magnesium supplementation

Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle tension and spasm. Therefore, there is a link with magnesium deficiency and chronic joint pain. It can also contribute to back pain and neck pain. A study conducted in 2008 showed that participants who used magnesium managed to reduce their chronic lower back pain by 49%.

It is worth noting that dietary magnesium has been decreasing in the western world due to an increased consumption of processed food. Processed food carries a significantly less amount of magnesium, compared to unrefined products.

Magnesium is a naturally occurring molecule in the body, and is important for a number of different physiological functions. In order to receive the full benefits of magnesium, a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle is also essential.

References

Magnesium basics | Clinical Kidney Journal | Oxford Academic (oup.com)

A Proposal For A Research Project Leading To The Doctor (dr-qais.com)