Magnesium & the Human Brain

The last time you ever thought of magnesium must’ve been in school, when you were forced to make up mnemonics in order to remember the periodic table.
Little did you know that this metal plays a major role in calming the nervous system, and relieving symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. Studies have also shown that individuals with low magnesium levels are at a higher risk of suffering from depression.

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body. Every part of your body from your heart to your bones needs magnesium in order to stay strong. But when it comes to your mental health, magnesium is a triple threat, it improves mood, sleep and memory all at once.
It plays two important roles in the brain, which contributes to these symptoms:

• It prevents the overstimulation of brain cells, preventing any brain damage.
• It helps regulate stress-relieving hormones like cortisol.

Magnesium deficiency in our bodies is one of the most under-recognised deficiencies compared to other nutrients. The mineral, widely available in our food supply and environment, seems to be causing serious concern since more than 50% of the population fails to meet the daily nutritional requirement.
Women should be getting approximately 320 mg of magnesium per day; while men : 420 mg. Older people are at risk for magnesium deficiency and thus; brain disorders.
Low magnesium levels have been linked with:

• Higher levels of stress
• Depression
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Headaches or muscle pain/tightness
• Fatigue

When trying to evaluate our magnesium intake, the first source we should look at is our diet. Healthy foods are foundational to raising magnesium levels and other essential minerals, and supplements should never be viewed as a substitute for a nutrient-rich diet.
A few naturally available sources of magnesium that can be included in an everyday diet are:

• Leafy Greens : Spinach, kale, etc.
• Beans : Black beans, kidney beans, lima beans all are high in magnesium.
• Nuts : Almonds, walnuts, cashews, etc.
• Whole Grains : Buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice, wheat and oat bran.
• Sweet Corn
• Potatoes with Peel

While diet is a starting point for meeting any nutritional requirement, magnesium just from the diet may not be enough for people suffering from mental health conditions
Excessive use of magnesium can be toxic, which is why it is critical to consult a physician.
If you’re planning on taking a supplement in addition to your dietary intake 350 mg/day for adults and children ages 9 and up is the safe amount.

Our mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Low magnesium levels have been linked with higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia and other sleep disturbances.
Tracking your body’s magnesium levels gives you an important insight into your bone, heart and brain health. Neodocs Wellness Cards help track your magnesium levels with a seconds long procedure yielding quick and accurate results, all in the comfort of your home.