Magnesium plays a vital role in the optimal function of your body and brain. It is important for many chemical reactions in the body. This standout mineral is known to promote heart health, support muscle function and calm your mind of stress and anxiety.
Magnesium can be found in foods like spinach, chard, avocados, black beans and almonds. But according to Dr. Lynne Ahn, magnesium deficiencies are very common. An alternative way to get magnesium is through nutritional supplementation.
A quick trip to the drugstore or an Amazon search will turn up many different types of magnesium supplements — each with its own unique use and formulation. But before purchasing anything, you should have your magnesium levels tested and discuss the results with Dr. Ahn so you can find the supplement amount and type specific to your needs.
In this post, Dr. Ahn breaks down some of the forms of magnesium, so you can get an idea of which one may be most appropriate for your health and wellness needs.
Useful Types of Magnesium Supplements
You may already be familiar with magnesium sulfate, more commonly known as Epsom salt. A combination of magnesium, sulfur and oxygen, magnesium sulfate has a texture similar to table salt. When dissolved in a bath, it can help soothe tired, sore muscles and reduce stress.
Another popular magnesium supplement that may sound familiar is magnesium citrate, or magnesium bound with citric acid. Magnesium citrate has a powerful laxative effect and is often taken orally to treat constipation.
If you are often fatigued, or you work out regularly and wish to improve your exercise performance, you may want to look into magnesium malate supplements. The combination of magnesium and malic acid can improve energy production and fight fatigue after exercise. Magnesium malate is occasionally recommended to manage symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Feeling stressed or anxious? Magnesium glycinate — magnesium combined with the amino acid glycine — is good for producing a calming effect. It has been shown to have a positive impact on people who regularly experience anxiety, stress, depression or insomnia.
Magnesium taurate, containing the amino acid taurine, is helpful for bolstering cardiovascular health. Research suggests it may prevent arrhythmias and protect against damage from heart attacks. The supplement is also used to support healthy blood pressure and reduce high blood pressure.
Are you always losing your keys or forgetting an acquaintance’s name? Magnesium L-threonate, or magnesium mixed with threonate acid, may help boost your short- and long-term memory. The supplement may also help with the management of other psychological disorders such as depression.
Identify and Address Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
If you need help identifying vitamin or mineral deficiencies and finding better ways to get the nutrients your body and brain need, Dr. Ahn is here for you. Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ahn.
