Magnesium is known to relieve headaches, ease anxiety, and even curb sugar cravings, but studies show that 68% of us don’t get enough of it. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has even placed magnesium on its short list of nutrients of concern for inadequate intake levels.
According to womenshealthmag.com, nutritionist Ariane Hundt, M.S. says magnesium is one of the unsung heroes of nutrition. Along with calcium it is an essential nutrient for all cellular activity, but our bodies can’t make it by themselves. We need to consume it daily through food and beverages or find other ways to supplement the required daily 310-320 milligrams for women or 400-420 milligrams for men.
“Magnesium is often overlooked even though the majority of Americans don’t get enough of it,” Hundt says. “Stress can deplete magnesium levels and that can result in increased blood pressure and a rise in the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.” She says adequate magnesium is also important for regular digestion, muscle activation, and energy production. It even plays a role in serotonin production, the neurotransmitter responsible for a balanced mood.
