What Is Magnesium Good For?

Magnesium supplements have increased in popularity in recent years, much like other supplements people are focusing their attention on nourishing their bodies.

Magnesium is one mineral that everyone naturally lacks, yet it is one whose levels can be significantly improved when you increase the number of magnesium-rich foods, such as;

• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains
• Leafy greens and vegetables
• Beans
• Milk and yoghurt
• Fortified foods

Magnesium can also be found in water, from tap, mineral, and bottled meaning it is one of the easiest minerals to obtain through diet as well as using supplements. Consuming too much magnesium through your food is nothing to worry about and will not cause negative symptoms. This can’t be said about taking too many magnesium supplements, which is why it is extremely important to consult with your doctor before introducing any new supplements into your diet.

The reason magnesium is so important to keep the body healthy is due to its crucial role it plays in the body, such as supporting the muscle and nerve function whilst increasing energy production. Here are some examples of the benefits you can expect to see when taking magnesium supplements.

• Protein synthesis
• Regulating blood pressure
• Maintaining heart health
• Nerve function
• Blood sugar control
• Healthy bone formation

Now, we have run through some benefits of magnesium, we’ll move on to answering some of your questions about magnesium and what it’s good for.

Can too much magnesium hurt your kidneys?

It can for some, although magnesium toxicity is rare amongst people who are in good health. Those suffering from conditions affecting their kidneys and connective organs are at increased risk of absorbing too much magnesium. This can result in something known as hypermagnesemia, and although it’s rare, it can occur. There are some symptoms recognised as showing signs of magnesium overdose so always remain mindful if you find any of these.

• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Muscle weakness
• Low blood pressure
• Urine retention
• Respiratory distress

If you find you are suffering from too much magnesium you can ask your doctor for an intravenous of calcium gluconate which will help reverse the effects of excessive amounts of magnesium enabling the kidneys to function and flush the remains of magnesium out of the system.

Is magnesium bad for your heart?

Not at all, in fact magnesium is vital for heart health because of its ability to transport electrolytes, such as potassium and calcium to every cell in the body, especially in the nervous system and muscles to support a regular and normal heartbeat.

If there is a lack or low levels of magnesium, these cells are unable to deliver results and over time will lead to developing cardiovascular disease as well as atrial fibrillation, which is the most common heartrate disorder.

Can magnesium stop heart palpitations?

Yes, it can, heart palpitations can feel very scary at times, but magnesium has been proven to help control the problem and is an effective treatment to combat heart palpitations. 

The reason you may suffer from heart palpitations may come from a lot of causes. Many find they are affected by the vagus nerve system is imbalanced meaning the vagus nerve responsible for slowing down the heart is not working correctly. When the heart is trying to correct itself, you will find that it has a high vagal tone, which can feel like heart palpitations. This isn’t the same for everyone, many may find they only notice palpitation once they are lying in bed trying to sleep.

Whether you are aware of heart palpitations or not, it is advised that taking 400mg magnesium daily will help support and control your heart rate. Remembering to avoid using supplements in your daily routine you have not cleared with your doctor first.

When should you take magnesium? 

When it comes to finding the best time of day to take magnesium, there is no right or wrong, if you are taking it consistently on a daily basis. Whenever you choose to take magnesium it will have a vast improvement in your mood, decreases anxiety, enhances sleep quality, and helps with depression. You can begin to see an improvement and positive set of results after introducing magnesium after 2 weeks. As I have already said consistency is key when benefiting from magnesium so you must be prepared for taking magnesium long-term.

What does low levels of magnesium cause?

It is common for some people to lack in magnesium, this is a problem that shouldn’t have any long-lasting effects if you seek the help from your doctor. It is a simple case of having a blood test to determine your magnesium levels. Having a magnesium deficiency is rare, but not completely uncommon and there are some tell-tale signs you have low levels of magnesium such as.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sleepiness
• Weakness
• Poor appetite
• Muscle spasms
• Increased levels of anxiety
• Weakened bones
• Regular bad headaches

If you find you are experiencing these symptoms, you should consider this as your sign to consult with your doctor.

As I have mentioned people suffering from magnesium deficiencies are rare, there are some people who are more likely to have low levels of magnesium such as, those with kidney disease, Crohn’s disease, those taking medication for diabetes, those who abuse alcohol, and finally those who are elderly.

There you have a little more information about magnesium and what it’s good for. Don’t forget if you have any further questions, you can come and find us on Instagram. You’ll be able to find one of our health experts in the direct messages.