“Why You Should Care About Magnesium”

When people tell me they are chronically tight and sore, some of the top things I will start with as a foundation is to see if they move their bodies enough, are well hydrated, have a low-inflammation diet if they are taking magnesium. Why is this? Because magnesium plays a vital role in the physiological processes that regulate muscle contraction and relaxation.

Chemically, magnesium acts as a natural calcium blocker, helping your muscle cells relax after contraction. When you’re magnesium deficient, your muscles may contract too much and cause symptoms like cramps or muscle tension.

In the body, calcium and magnesium work together to control muscle action. Calcium binds to proteins such as troponin to stimulate muscle contraction. After the muscle contracts, magnesium comes into the picture, competing with calcium to bind to these proteins. When magnesium binds to the proteins instead of calcium, it helps the muscle cells relax.

Physiologically, magnesium is essential for nerve transmission and muscle contraction. It plays a significant role in neuromuscular signals and muscle relaxation. As such, a deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, or involuntary twitching and cramping.

Moreover, magnesium contributes to the operation of our ‘parasympathetic’ nervous system, the system that promotes relaxation and recovery. By helping to quiet the nervous system, magnesium may alleviate stress and promote feelings of calmness. This impact on the nervous system also illustrates why magnesium is often called ‘nature’s relaxant’.

In summary, the chemical and physiological roles of magnesium in the body are interconnected and serve to maintain optimal muscle function and promote relaxation. Whether through dietary sources or supplementation, ensuring adequate magnesium intake can support muscle health and overall wellness.