We’ve heard a lot of buzz lately around magnesium and its many potential wellness benefits, including its use for improving sleep, relaxation, and relief from muscle pain. Magnesium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that plays a crucial role in making DNA and regulating various bodily functions such as nerve and muscle function and blood sugar levels, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Most people associate magnesium with its calming effects on the body. According to Deepali Kashyap MD, IFMCP, NMCP, a certified functional medicine doctor with Galleria Women’s Health, magnesium relaxes the body and can help with issues like leg cramps, stomach cramps, and lowering blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. The best way to increase your magnesium intake is through magnesium-rich foods, but sometimes supplements are necessary.
One common form of magnesium supplement is magnesium oxide, which is widely available and affordable. However, magnesium oxide has lower bioavailability compared to other forms like magnesium citrate and glycinate, meaning that less of the magnesium is available for the body to use. Therefore, magnesium oxide may not be the best choice for treating a deficiency, though it still offers some health benefits.
If you have a magnesium deficiency, it’s recommended to opt for forms like magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium aspartate, magnesium lactate, or magnesium chloride, which are better absorbed by the body. It’s important to consult with your doctor if you suspect a magnesium deficiency as low levels can lead to symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, muscle cramps, and irregular heartbeat.
While magnesium oxide may not be the most effective form for addressing deficiencies, it still has some potential health benefits. For instance, it may help relieve headaches, support the body’s stress response, alleviate constipation, lower blood pressure, stabilize blood sugar levels, and maintain skin moisture and health.
However, it’s crucial to note that potential side effects and risks may be associated with taking magnesium oxide, even though it’s a natural mineral. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
