Magnesium is an incredibly important mineral for our bodies. Yet, an estimated 85% of all Americans are deficient in magnesium.
Most of the magnesium in the body is intracellular, which means inside our cells. This is important to know, as it is commonly only tested as serum blood levels. It is possible to have normal serum magnesium levels, and still be deficient at the cellular level. It takes several weeks to replace magnesium with oral supplements because our intracellular stores are considerably large.
Magnesium is an important element for several enzymes that are required for over 300 metabolic reactions, It is involved in over 3000 binding sites in the body. In addition, It acts as an antioxidant and mitigates the effects of oxidative stress via the glutathione redox system. This enables your body to cope with stress more successfully.
Magnesium is a primary regulator of glycolysis and the Kreb’s cycle, which means that it plays a huge role in blood sugar and energy regulation. It is also a second messenger for growth factors in protein synthesis, thus it is part of how you make hormones, and is part of proper immune function as well.
Magnesium helps maintain cell membrane stability, which means it is crucial for proper cardiovascular function, muscle function, and nerve conduction. It helps with muscle aches and tightness, as well as dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, alleviate headaches, and prevent constipation.
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