The Value of Magnesium

We hear a lot about Magnesium and for good reason.  It is essential for human health and required in over 600 cellular reactions throughout the body. Most people know that magnesium relieves aching muscles however did you know it also contributes to brain, heart and muscle function, energy production as well as bone health and sleep?

As a trace mineral, we only require a small amount, preferably through diet. Foods that are high in magnesium include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocados, yogurt, bananas, dried fruit and dark chocolate.

Ideally, we would source our magnesium requirements via diet, however it is well known that some farming areas in Australia have a low magnesium soil content. Added to the fact that most of our diets are suboptimal in magnesium rich foods means that there are different times and situations in our life when we can benefit from magnesium supplementation.

I frequently recommend a “practitioner only” high quality Magnesium and B vitamin formula to all athletes that come to my clinic given the beneficial impact on energy levels and muscle recovery during training and competing. However, there are many specific health conditions for which I also recommend magnesium including poor sleep, migraines and fatigue, inflammation, anxiety and depression.

Note I recommend you seek professional advice to determine if you would benefit from a magnesium supplement. The recommended daily upper limit of magnesium is 350mg per day and excess can cause nausea, cramps and diarrhoea. Magnesium supplements may also interact with some medications such as blood pressure medication. It is important the take any supplements at least two hours away from prescription medication.