Magnesium (Mg) is among the most abundant minerals in the human body and is involved in many physiological processes. From bone density to heart function, Mg plays an important role in the maintenance of good health. Mg can be obtained through various dietary sources including leafy greens, fish, nuts and seeds, bran, oats, as well as dairy and soy products (if tolerated). In many cases, Mg is used for therapeutic purposes and can be taken as a supplement for the required effects. As with any supplement, it is important to consult with a naturopathic doctor before starting a course of magnesium supplementation to ensure its efficacy and safety for your particular needs.
Some research indicates that the role of Mg in bone health may be more important than previously thought. Some studies indicate that we should actually be supplementing Mg at a much higher dose than we have been doing in the past. While this matter continues to be examined, it does serve to highlight the importance of Mg in bone health.
Mg is also useful for alleviating muscle tension and relaxing muscle cramps. For this purpose, Mg can be used in oral form, as a topical cream, or in the form of Epsom salts. It is often recommended that people who take a calcium-magnesium supplement should take one of their daily doses before bedtime. A beneficial effect of this bedtime dose is that Mg helps to relax the body and improve sleep quality. Mg also seems to reduce pain and other symptoms experienced by people with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Mg can also have significant effects on the digestive system. It is commonly used to treat acute heartburn and indigestion. It is also known to be an effective laxative. While it may help treat these conditions when they occur, it is important to note that Mg should not be used as a long-term treatment for constipation, indigestion or heartburn. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause of these conditions and to address them appropriately.
Mg may be considered as part of a plan to address blood pressure regulation. Mg acts as a vasodilator – it causes blood vessels to open and get wider – which acts to reduce the pressure of blood flow on the vessel walls. Again, it is important to consult with a professional to determine if Mg should be included as part of your particular treatment plan.
These are only a few uses of Mg. Mg can also be used as part of a plan to address other conditions including migraine headaches, asthma, arrhythmias, PMS, diabetes, and kidney stones. Mg can be administered in various ways: orally, applied topically to the skin, as a bath salt, through intravenous administration, etc. It is also available in different forms, such as Mg citrate, oxide, sulphate, carbonate, and malate. Furthermore, different doses of Mg are required for treating different conditions.
Please consult with your naturopathic doctor to determine if Mg supplementation is right for you and to discuss the best way to introduce a Mg supplement.