Magnesium | Magnesium glycinate

Magnesium | Magnesium glycinate

Properties: Magnesium is one of those macroelements that are supplemented most often. Perhaps you have heard that the optimal level of this element is necessary to prevent muscle cramps. However, by no means this is the only (or crucial) property of magnesium! Let’s take a look at the many benefits that supplementation of this macroelement can bring about, especially in the context of neuroregulation. 

To begin with, magnesium takes part in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. In this way, it increases the production of energy in the mitochondria, which, in turn, supports the proper functioning of all the cells in the organism. Since magnesium also has antioxidative properties, it protects these cells from the damage caused by an excess of free radicals. Additionally, it benefits the condition of the cardiovascular system as it lowers the blood pressure and supports the heart. Thus, its supplementation is important in cardiovascular diseases prophylaxis. Last but not least, in combination with calcium and vitamin D3 it builds bones and teeth and thereby helps to prevent osteoporosis.

Nevertheless, magnesium does play a role in the fight against cramps. This element is responsible for the optimal functioning of our muscles and provides them with necessary energy. Therefore, the supplementation of magnesium is especially recommended to all those who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome or need to boost physical performance. 

Magnesium also has a significant influence on our mind. Although the brain mass constitutes only 2% of the entire body mass, it requires around 20% of the total energy produced by the organism – in the resting state! When the task at hand becomes challenging, the need for energy increases even more. Therefore, it becomes clear that magnesium, which promotes cellular energy production, has a great significance in terms of mind functions. So it is – magnesium delivers energy to the neural tissue, thereby benefiting cognitive performance, especially in terms of concentration and memory. What is more, magnesium is involved in the process of neurogenesis – the formation of new neurons. Since the amount of neurons is directly related to memory capacity, this macroelement increases the volume of information we can remember. Noteworthy, it also can help us to calm down. As it turns out, magnesium stimulates the activity of neurotransmitters that support stress management and positive mood. In sum, its supplementation benefits intellectual abilities as well as emotional stability. 

Now, it should be clear why magnesium is commonly referred to as “the element of life”. Indeed, it is one of the most important macroelements, as it influences the wide range of key processes in the organism. As a supplement, it not only efficiently supports general health, but also optimizes the functioning of the nervous system.

Occurrence: Rich sources of magnesium are primarily products of plant origin: pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, almonds, nuts (hazelnuts, cashews, Brazil nuts), peanuts, soybeans, wheat and oat bran, cocoa, beans, buckwheat groats, whole grain products. Smaller amounts of this element can also be found in fish: mackerel, cod or halibut.

Biochemistry: Magnesium (Mg) is a chemical element in the alkaline earth metal group. In its pure form, it is a brittle, silvery-white solid. In contact with air, it oxidizes, undergoing passivation. It reacts with acids and with hot water, but is resistant to alkali. It is a flammable substance, its flash point is about 760 degrees Celsius. In the form of dust, it exhibits pyrophoric properties, its spontaneous ignition occurs as early as about 470 degrees Celsius. In the air it burns with a blinding white flame, the temperature of which exceeds 3,000 degrees Celsius. Magnesium ions are cofactors of more than 300 enzymes. Among them are those that use ATP or participate in its production, as well as those involved in DNA and RNA synthesis. The adult body contains about 25 grams of magnesium, 60% of which is found in the bones, and only less than 1% in blood serum.

Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, regular drinking of coffee and other caffeinated beverages does not flush magnesium out of the body – as long as one maintains moderation, i.e. drinks no more than, for example, 3 cups of coffee a day.