There are several kinds of foods that nature offers us, as well as several kinds of food supplements that are offered by the pharmaceutical market. Not all magnesium supplements are created equal.
Some forms are better for energy, while others are better for mood. Read on to find out why magnesium is so important and how to choose the right kind for you. So then, what are the health benefits of taking magnesium?
What is magnesium and what is it used for?
Magnesium is one of the essential mineral nutrients, it remains one of the main trace elements which are present in the cells of our bodies. Magnesium is vital for life. It is an essential component of DNA and is required for over 300 metabolic reactions within the body.
Magnesium is the fourth most essential mineral in the human body. Magnesium is an essential nutrient for all forms of life, and it is particularly beneficial for heart and bone health, and it also helps in the proper functioning of muscles and the nervous system. It is a cellular antioxidant, an ally of well-being which is necessary for our daily life, and which must be taken into consideration. It should also be noted that it plays a key role in physical fatigue and stress. The increased worldwide interest in magnesium is due to its many functions in the body, and its associated role in the prevention of disease.
A question arises; Can we get magnesium from our diet? You will find it in foods rich in magnesium such as spinach, cashews, whole grains, leafy vegetables, avocados, potatoes and dark chocolate (yes, chocolate!) etc... However, at least 60% and possibly even 80% of adults do not get the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of magnesium.
Dietary supplements; a booming market!
When you find yourself in the aisle of dietary supplements, you must have noticed the wide range of different brands that are in competition. You will be faced with dozens of different kinds of magnesium. Not only are there different brands and doses, but the bottom line is also, that different types of magnesium have different effects.
So then, which one to choose?
Magnesium supplements are made by attaching a magnesium molecule to some carrier or another: an amino acid (glycine, arginine, taurine) or an organic acid like citrate. Magnesium can be linked to a large number of different manufacturing processes, so you have different options: Glycinate, malate, chloride, taurate, sulphate, arginate, lysinate, ascorbate, fumarate, gluconate, carbonate, orotate, threonate... And the list goes on…However, the most well-known form remains magnesium citrate; Magnesium citrate is an essential mineral known to play a crucial role in regulating mood and sleep. Several studies show that this form of magnesium promotes mental and muscular relaxation.
Supplements containing magnesium citrate are known for their calming properties.
Which form of magnesium is the best?
The answer to this question is not unequivocal, and everything will depend on the needs of the person and the areas to be targeted. If you want to use a form that provides magnesium effectively, the most optimal choice will be lactate, malate, citrate, or glycinate, all of which have very good bioavailability.
You have understood that the decision depends on what you expect. For example, if you are looking for more specific support for the circulatory system, the most interesting form will be taurate, but if you are looking for nervous system support to regulate your mood as well as cognitive abilities, then the best form will be threonate.
Note: Follow the instructions and dosage on the box and remain vigilant about your state of health. It is suggested to perform a blood test in order of course to be sure that you are deficient in magnesium. Speak to your doctor before self-medication. And remember, the best magnesium supplements are the ones that are right for you. A magnesium cure once a year can only be positive for the health of your body.
