Working in a Health Food store, one of the most common supplements I get asked about is Magnesium. Magnesium deficiency is thought to be the silent epidemic of our time according to some health institutes and is currently our highest selling VMS (vitamin mineral supplement) product. With it commonly being used to help ease the symptoms of a huge array of problems, it’s not hard to see why it is such a popular product. Think Magnesium might be the supplement for you? You’re probably right, and here’s why:

1. Magnesium and Pain relief

Some studies have shown that in certain situations, pain-related disorders such as migraine, tension-headaches and sometimes even fibromyalgia-based pain can be eased by the supplementation of Magnesium. Magnesium is the mineral which allows our muscles to relax, and by aiding that process, our nerves relax which can help to ease some of the pain.

2. Magnesium and Skeletal Health

Magnesium works alongside Calcium to look after our bones and skeletal structure. As well as benefiting our muscular health, it allows our bodies to assimilate Calcium, therefore managing the skeletal health as well. Research has shown that Magnesium may be as critical to bone health as Calcium and therefore can potentially be used to aid conditions such as Osteoporosis.

3. Magnesium and Stress/Nerve health

Magnesium works alongside other vitamins and minerals in the body to help maintain a healthy nervous system and beneficially influence symptoms sometimes associated with stress-response. Some research has shown that anxiety disorders can sometimes be seen in people with a low Magnesium count.

4. Magnesium and Heart Health

Due to it’s effect on the vascular system, Magnesium is sometimes thought to benefit the heart and potentially help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. It is considered to be an essential coenzyme which is critical to energy production which may help to encourage the heart muscle to pump blood around the body. Due to it’s enzymatic influence, it is thought it may also benefit some fatigue related disorders.

Magnesium is an essential mineral for maintaining your health, so if you are lacking in Magnesium-rich foods, it might be worth thinking about supplementing. Please discuss any concerns with your healthcare professional first.