Magnesium is a critical mineral. It is responsible for over 650 biochemical processes in our body. This means that there is over 650 things our body can’t do, or can’t do properly. The problem is that the soil is very depleted, so the food that we get is much more deficient in magnesium than it once was. We also live in a stressed world, which depletes magnesium rapidly because it’s very important for managing stress. In the U.S, 80% of the population is deficient in magnesium. Because magnesium is low in food, and most people are deficient, it’s a good idea to supplement.

Roles That Magnesium Plays

1. Muscle relaxation

There was a study done that shows magnesium deficiency causes high cortisol in the brain. This leads to an inability to cope with stress.

2. Cardiovascular health

Magnesium increases prostacyclin and nitric oxide, which are both vasodilators. It helps to relax the endothelial layer of the arteries, so blood can flow freely, which lowers blood pressure.

3. Sleep

Magnesium activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digest. It also enhances GABA in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. Magnesium deficiency will cause you to feel tight, alert, and like you can’t turn off.

4. Energy production

Magnesium is critical for energy production. ATP, which is responsible for all energy, is bound to magnesium, and can’t work properly without it.

5. Constipation

Magnesium will help relax the muscles in the intestines, which will allow things to move smoothly. It’s important to note that taking too much magnesium can pull water to your bowls, causing disaster pants.

Sources and Supplements

Food-

The color green is an indication of magnesium

Green leafy vegetables

Cacao

Avocados

Chlorella

spirulina

Supplements-

Malate

Glycinate

Threonate

Chloride

Oxide

Taurate

Orotate

There is also topical magnesium you can use for spot treatments. This is great if you have a cramp, or are trying to recover after a workout. Ease magnesium is a great brand, and is 99% absorbable.