Categories Diet Tips

Why You Should Be Taking Magnesium Supplements

When you’re going through different medical articles on the number of nutrients you need daily, you may have come across the need to take magnesium supplements from brands like Vital Nutrients at Supplement First.

Magnesium supplements aren’t a new thing, of course. They have long been a staple on any grocery’s dietary supplement aisle for years. However, it’s only recently that they have been touted for various health benefits, from aiding in sleep quality to boosting our immune systems.

But this may leave you wondering, should you be taking magnesium supplements in the first place? Find out here!

What Magnesium Does to Our Body

Magnesium is a nutrient that regulates the function of enzymes in our body. It also acts as an important electrolyte, helping our bodies build proteins. Moreover, it works with calcium, another essential mineral.

Through magnesium’s functions, it helps manage many other important bodily processes, such as:

  • Muscle function
  • Energy production
  • Nerve conduction and signaling
  • Bone health
  • Normal heart rhythm
  • Blood sugar level and blood pressure regulation

As you can see, magnesium plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, which is why it’s crucial to ensure that you get enough of it daily through a healthy diet or supplements from Thorne Research. 

Should You Take Magnesium Supplements

As long as you maintain a well-balanced diet, you aren’t likely to be deficient in magnesium. This is because magnesium is naturally found in various foods, with some food items fortified with the nutrient.

Also, even if a person’s magnesium intake may be low some days, healthy kidneys will ensure that your body retains the amount of magnesium needed. They will also get rid of any excess unnecessary magnesium.

That said, some people suffer from low magnesium. If this is the case and their magnesium levels remain low for the long term, they are considered magnesium deficient and will likely require supplementation.

Magnesium efficiencies are usually caused by conditions negatively affecting the gastrointestinal tract’s ability to absorb magnesium. This includes conditions like chronic diarrhea or uncontrolled diabetes.

The recommended amount of magnesium necessary will depend on your gender and age. Female teens and adults will need anywhere between 310-400 mg a day, depending if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make teens and adults will need anywhere around 400-420 mg a day.

Children will need anywhere between 80-240 mg daily, depending on their age bracket. The older they get, the more magnesium they’ll need. 

Is It Safe to Take Magnesium Supplements

Magnesium supplements are safe to take and can benefit you if you aren’t getting enough of the nutrient. As long as you aren’t taking too much magnesium (420 mg or less daily), you won’t have any problem when supplementing your diet.

That said, it’s crucial that you speak with your doctor to assess your need for magnesium supplements, as too much of this nutrient can cause side effects and long-term problems. 

Wrapping It Up

Before you take magnesium supplements, make sure you speak with your doctor to check if it’s required based on your individual needs.