Magnesium Supplements

All about Magnesium and Magnesium Supplements!

Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in body. Approximately 60 percent is found in bones and teeth, about 27 percent is found in the muscles, while the rest is found in the tissues and blood.

Many experts believe that the majority of the Western world is deficient in this vital nutrient and would benefit from taking a magnesium supplement because of the high consumption of processed foods, which provide little to no amounts of this almighty mineral. Moreover, certain medications, intense physical activity, some diseases such as diabetes and alcoholism can cause low levels of magnesium as well.

How can Magnesium Benefit You?

This “workhorse” mineral activates many enzymes and works with others to carry out over 300 metabolic functions, including energy production, protein digestion and synthesis, and it helps the body produce and use insulin.

Magnesium is also needed for proper nerve and muscle function. It is involved in the formation of bones and teeth, the clotting of blood, and the regulation of heart rhythm. It also promotes muscle relaxation and assists in calcium and potassium uptake.

Specifically, magnesium and/or magnesium supplements may be helpful to:

  • Heart Disease, Angina, and Arrhythmias. Magnesium is absolutely essential in the proper functioning of the heart and, as such, its role in preventing heart disease and strokes is generally well accepted. Magnesium supplementation (intravenously) has been shown in studies to be helpful in angina that is due to either atherosclerosis or a spasm of the coronary artery. It has also shown to be of benefit for many types of arrhythmias.

  • Control hypertension (high blood pressure). Magnesium has shown to be helpful in lowering high blood pressure, possibly by relaxing constricted blood vessels.

  • Other heart conditions. Magnesium has also been used for congestive heart failure - an inability of the heart to effectively pump blood.

  • Prevent migraine and tension headaches. Many migraine headache sufferers are found to have low levels of magnesium in their systems. There is also considerable evidence that low magnesium levels trigger migraines as well as tension headaches.

  • Reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Magnesium's role in relaxing contracted muscles may make it helpful for easing the aching associated with this condition.

  • Prevent osteoporosis. Magnesium is extremely important for the proper utilization of calcium by the bones and, as such, some researchers feel that magnesium is as important for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis as is calcium.

  • Minimize the severity of asthma attacks. By promoting the relaxation of the bronchial muscles and encouraging the lung's airways to expand, magnesium may help ease breathing problems in those who suffer from asthma.

  • Relieve PMS (premenstrual syndrome) discomforts. Magnesium levels have been shown to be lower in women with PMS than those who do not suffer from this condition. In fact, one double-blind study found that magnesium supplementation - 200 milligrams per day alleviated PMS symptoms such as abdominal bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness, and swelling of upper extremities.

    In addition, this workhorse mineral may be beneficial in physical and emotional stress, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, premenstrual tension, and restless leg syndrome.

    Lastly, studies have shown that women taking magnesium supplements during pregnancy can have a huge effect in reducing birth defects. For example, a study reported by the Journal of the American Medical Association indicated that there was a 70% lower incidence of mental retardation in children of mothers who had taken magnesium supplements during their pregnancy. In addition, the incidence of cerebral palsy was lower - 90%. Moreover, some experts state that it can help prevent premature labor.

    Signs of Deficiency

    A magnesium deficiency can cause many different symptoms, which include irritability; muscle cramps, spasms, and weakness; agitation and anxiety; fatigue; nausea and vomiting; insomnia; abnormal heart rhythms; confusion; and hyperventilation.

    Precautions

    Magnesium supplements should be balanced with an increase intake of calcium or calcium supplements to achieve the maximum benefits of both nutrients.

    People with kidney problems and heart disease should not use magnesium supplements unless instructed by a physician.

    There are many drugs that appear to adversely affect magnesium status and, as such, it is recommended that if you are taking any prescription medications to speak to a physician. In fact, it is advised that you speak to a physician before adding any dietary supplements.

    The most common side effect of magnesium is diarrhea and loose stools.

    Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre’s

    Tips on Choosing a Magnesium Product (Supplement)

    1. As we mentioned earlier, magnesium should be balanced with calcium to achieve the maximum benefits of both nutrients. Calcium, on the other hand, needs vitamin D to be absorbed. As such, we believe that you should take your magnesium supplement as part of a comprehensive scientifically balanced formula for optimal vibrant health. Exception: If your physician has recommended a stand-alone magnesium supplement.

    2. When selecting a magnesium product, choose magnesium citrate because it's the form that the body absorbs the best. While magnesium oxide is often the cheapest form available, it's also the most poorly absorbed form.

    3. Select a supplement from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities, which adhere to very stringent manufacturing standards. This is CRUCIAL because supplements are unregulated in the U.S. and consumers only have a 1 in 5 chance of buying a product that contains the amount of ingredients stated on the label or one that does not harbor contaminates.

    4. Look for products that are formulated by someone who is qualified to create a supplement with ingredients that work in balance and synergistically to offer the maximum results.

    5. Be sure to select products that do not contain any artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, yeast, sucrose, dextrose or gluten etc.

    Featured Comprehensive Product

    Looking for high quality magnesium supplements?

    One company that meets the above requirements -- and more -- is Xtend-Life Natural Products from New Zealand. Their flagship product called Total Balance contains a broad spectrum of over 75 specialized nutrients that the body needs for optimal 'whole' body health, including magnesium citrate, along with amino acids, potent antioxidants, specialty nutrients, herbal extracts, enzymes, vitamins, and other minerals.

    All of the ingredients are scientifically combined in a synergistic way to enhance and maximize the efficacy of each other.

    We have been taking Total Balance for several years now and can personally attest to its excellent results such as significantly more energy, vitality, and an improved sense of well being.



    To Your Health!

    The Editors


    Much more than Magnesium Supplements can be found at our Mineral Supplement web-page


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