Did you know that magnesium is needed for over 300 processes in the body? Magnesium deficiencies can lead to a huge list of unwanted symptoms and it is something that more people suffer from than you may think. A deficiency could lead to cardiovascular issues, an increase in PMS symptoms, preeclampsia during pregnancy, osteoporosis, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and nutrient deficiencies just to name a few. The bottom line is that magnesium is essential and we lose magnesium stores daily just from normal body functions. So, let’s take a look at some of the reasons we need magnesium and why it is important to make sure we are getting enough magnesium-rich foods in our diets, and if not that we are supplementing appropriately.

Why Magnesium is Essential for Overall Health 

#1 Supports Relaxation: Magnesium is often used to help support relaxation and is very beneficial for those who suffer from anxiety or difficulty sleeping due to its calming effect. Magnesium is very important for GABA which is a neurotransmitter that helps to promote feel good hormones in the body. Magnesium helps to support this neurotransmitter, so not getting enough could cause feelings of stress or anxiety.

#2 Helps Those Who Suffer with Sleep Issues 

Like we just talked about, magnesium happens to have a calming effect on the body. This is why it is often used at nighttime in those who deal with insomnia. It can help relax muscles and an el calm the body so you are more likely to fall asleep.

#3 Combats Constipation

A great all-natural remedy for constipation is the use of magnesium. Magnesium can help move stool through the intestines. If you find that you struggle with regularity, supplementing with magnesium may be able to help.

#4 Helps Reduce Muscle Soreness & Spasms 

Magnesium is often used among athletes who suffer from muscle pain or spasms. Athletes know that if they aren’t getting enough magnesium, their muscles may spam. Supplementing with magnesium may be able to help relax your muscles, and reduce the spams if this is something that you suffer with.

#5 Helps Relieve Headaches 

Magnesium has been shown to help reduce headaches so well that you can even find magnesium available as a topical roll-on product that many people will use on their forehead or temples when they have a headache. Magnesium is thought to help reduce a migraine headache by reducing vasoconstriction and also reducing the pain associated with the headache.

Magnesium has so many wonderful health benefits and a deficiency can lead to a whole host of issues. If you suspect that you aren’t getting enough magnesium in your diet, try increasing your magnesium-rich food intake by enjoying almonds, bananas, spinach, cashews, avocados, or quinoa. You can also speak with your health care provider about supplementation as well.