Magnesium plays a number of important roles in the structure and function of the human body. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in carbohydrate and fat metabolism to produce energy at a cellular level.
It plays an important role in protein synthesis; an important metabolic function in the formation of new cells. Magnesium plays an important structural role in the bones. It is particularly necessary for cell signalling and this affects many processes such as the secretion of parathyroid hormone, which enhances the release of calcium from the large reservoir contained in the bones that is then resorbed by the kidneys in response to low calcium levels in the body and also influences the conversion of Vitamin D in the intestines.
Magnesium also affects the conduction of nerve impulses, nerve contraction and normal heart rhythm. It is important to remember, the heart is a very large muscle with an enormous job to fulfill and needs a regular balance of calcium and magnesium for optimal function.
Deficiencies in Magnesium may present as muscle cramps, spasm and weakness, trembling or even convulsions. Restless legs is a common sign of Magnesium deficiency. Personality changes may be apparent in the form of depression, irritability and impaired concentration. Anorexia may be present along with nausea and vomiting. Some patients present with increased blood triglycerides and elevated cholesterol. The triglycerides are the High Density Lipoprotein and Low Density Lipoprotein levels that you may see on your blood tests. An elevation in LDL results in more cholesterol being delivered to the cells than being excreted and this may lead to increases in atherosclerosis, a common finding in heart disease.
A deficiency in magnesium may lead to the formation of gallstones especially in the case of insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. Pre-eclampsia in pregnancy may also be seen in magnesium deficiency.
People suffering from conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Stress & Depression, Headache & Migraine, Osteoporosis and Hypertension may well feel an improvement with a Magnesium supplement.
Remember, not all magnesium supplements are the same. Many contain Magnesium oxide which is very poorly absorbed and bulks up the supplement contents without actually having any appreciable positive affects. Call Sue 0408 804 345 if you would like to explore this further.
