Overview
Magnesium is a vital mineral crucial for the human body's optimal performance. It's involved in more than 300 biochemical processes, encompassing nerve activity, muscle movement, energy generation, and protein creation.1 Despite its critical role, a significant number of individuals don't get enough magnesium solely from their food intake. Astonishingly, it's believed that nearly half of the population might be lacking in this essential minera.2
Supplementing with magnesium can help individuals meet their daily requirements and potentially provide numerous health benefits. Here are some reasons why magnesium is such an important supplement.
Promotes healthy bones and teeth
Magnesium plays a pivotal role for bone health, aiding in the regulation of calcium and Vitamin D within the body. Numerous research pieces have associated magnesium intake with enhanced bone density and a decreased likelihood of fractures.3,4
Helps reduce inflammation
Inflammation is the body's innate reaction to harm or infections. Yet, when it becomes chronic, it can pave the way for several health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Studies indicate that magnesium possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which could assist in lowering the chances of these persistent ailments.5,6
Supports cardiovascular health
Magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels. Studies have shown that magnesium supplementation may help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve overall heart health.7,8
Improves sleepMagnesium has been shown to have a calming effect on the body, which may help improve sleep quality. Several studies have found that magnesium supplementation can help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.9,10
Magnesium is a key mineral with a myriad of health advantages. Before diving into magnesium supplements, it's essential to consult with a healthcare expert to pinpoint the right amount for you. Furthermore, magnesium stands out in its role in hormone equilibrium. This essential mineral is instrumental in maintaining the body's hormone balance. As hormones act as our body's chemical communicators, they oversee functions from mood swings to metabolism and even fertility. Disrupted hormone levels can trigger various symptoms and health challenges. Studies suggest that magnesium can be a game-changer in stabilizing these hormone levels. Let's delve into how magnesium aids in this regulation.
Regulates cortisol levels
Cortisol a hormone produced by the adrenal gland, surges during stressful times. Persistent stress can elevate cortisol, throwing off hormonal harmony and leading to health complications. Research indicates that magnesium can temper cortisol fluctuations, mitigating stress's impact on the body
Helps balance estrogen levels
Estrogen is a sex hormone present in both people assigned female at birth (PAFAB) and in people assigned male at birth (PAMAB). In PAFAB estrogen plays a vital role in reproductive health. However, imbalances in estrogen levels can lead to menstrual problems, mood swings, and other symptoms. Magnesium has been shown to help regulate estrogen levels and reduce the risk of estrogen-related health problems.8
Improves insulin sensitivity
Insulin plays a pivotal role in managing our body's blood sugar. When the body starts resisting insulin's effects, it can result in elevated blood sugar and heighten the chances of diabetes. Studies suggest that magnesium can enhance the body's receptiveness to insulin, thereby diminishing the potential for insulin resistance.13
Supports thyroid function
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism and energy levels in the body. Magnesium plays a crucial role in supporting thyroid function, and a deficiency in this mineral can lead to thyroid problems.14
When estrogen overshadows progesterone in the body, it leads to a condition known as estrogen dominance. Magnesium, a vital mineral, plays a significant role in various body processes, notably in harmonizing hormones. In this piece, we'll delve into how magnesium can counteract estrogen dominance and offer guidance on optimal dosage for those aiming to stabilize their hormonal landscape.
How does magnesium affect estrogen dominance?
Magnesium is essential for hormone balance, as it helps regulate the production and metabolism of several hormones, including the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Magnesium deficiency can disrupt the delicate balance between these hormones, leading to estrogen dominanceMagnesium is also involved in estrogen metabolism, helping to convert estradiol, the primary estrogen hormone, into a less potent form that the body can eliminate. This process is essential for preventing excess estrogen buildup and maintaining proper hormone levels in the body. Additionally, chronic stress can increase cortisol levels in the body, which can interfere with magnesium absorption and utilization. Adequate magnesium levels can help mitigate the effects of stress on the body and support hormone balance.
Which magnesium is best for estrogen dominance?
Magnesium is available in several forms, including magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, and magnesium threonate. The absorption rate of magnesium varies between these forms, with magnesium glycinate and magnesium threonate being highly absorbable forms of magnesium.
Magnesium glycinate is recommended for individuals with estrogen dominance as it supports hormone balance and is less likely to cause digestive issues than other forms of magnesium. Magnesium threonate is also highly absorbable and can support hormone balance, but it is more expensive than other forms of magnesium.
How much should I take for estrogen dominance?
The recommended daily intake of magnesium varies between age and gender groups. Adult PAFAB require 310-320 mg per day. However, the recommended dosage for estrogen dominance varies based on individual needs and should be determined by a healthcare professional.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.
Side effects and other concerns
High doses of magnesium may cause diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Individuals with kidney disease or severe heart disease should consult with a healthcare professional before taking magnesium supplements.
Magnesium may also interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and muscle relaxants. Individuals taking these medications should consult with a healthcare professional before taking magnesium supplements.
Summary
Magnesium is a critical mineral involved in hormone balance, and magnesium deficiency can contribute to estrogen dominance. Magnesium glycinate and magnesium threonate are highly absorbable forms of magnesium recommended for estrogen dominance. The recommended dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional, and individuals should be aware of possible side effects and interactions with medication.
References:
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- Rosanoff A, Weaver CM, Rude RK. Suboptimal magnesium status in the United States: are the health consequences underestimated? Nutrition Reviews [Internet]. 2012 Mar [cited 2023 Mar 3];70(3):153–64. Available from: https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article-lookup/doi/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00465.x
- Castiglioni S, Cazzaniga A, Albisetti W, Maier JAM. Magnesium and osteoporosis: current state of knowledge and future research directions. Nutrients [Internet]. 2013 Jul 31 [cited 2023 Mar 3];5(8):3022–33. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775240/
- Veronese N, Berton L, Carraro S, Bolzetta F, De Rui M, Perissinotto E, et al. Effect of oral magnesium supplementation on physical performance in healthy elderly women involved in a weekly exercise program: a randomized controlled trial1,2,3. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition [Internet]. 2014 Sep 1 [cited 2023 Aug 16];100(3):974–81. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523047664
- Nielsen FH. Magnesium, inflammation, and obesity in chronic disease: Nutrition Reviews©, Vol. 68, No. 6. Nutrition Reviews [Internet]. 2010 Jun [cited 2023 Mar 3];68(6):333–40. Available from: https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article-lookup/doi/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2010.00293.x
- Byrne J, Murphy C, Keogh JB, Clifton PM. The effect of magnesium supplementation on endothelial function: a randomised cross-over pilot study. Int J Environ Res Public Health [Internet]. 2021 Aug 2 [cited 2023 Mar 3];18(15):8169. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8346147/
- Zhang X, Li Y, Del Gobbo LC, Rosanoff A, Wang J, Zhang W, et al. Effects of magnesium supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trials. 2016 Aug [cited 2023 Aug 16];68(2):324-33. Available from: https://hdl.handle.net/1805/12015
- Rodríguez-Morán M, Guerrero-Romero F. Oral magnesium supplementation improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic control in type 2 diabetic subjects: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Diabetes Care. 2003 Apr [cited 2023 Aug 16] ;26(4):1147–52. Available from: https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/26/4/1147/23730/Oral-Magnesium-Supplementation-Improves-Insulin
- Arab A, Rafie N, Amani R, Shirani F. The role of magnesium in sleep health: a systematic review of available literature. Biol Trace Elem Res [Internet]. 2023 Jan 1 [cited 2023 Aug 16];201(1):121–8. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12011-022-03162-1
- Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L. The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review. Nutrients [Internet]. 2017 Apr 26 [cited 2023 Mar 3];9(5):429. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452159/
- Abbasi B, Kimiagar Masud , Sadeghniiat Khosro . The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Res Med Sci [Internet]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3703169/
- Guerrero-Romero F, Rodríguez-Morán M. Low serum magnesium levels and metabolic syndrome. Acta Diabetol [Internet]. 2002 Dec 1 [cited 2023 Aug 16];39(4):209–13. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s005920200036
- Tonick S, Muneyyirci-Delale O. Magnesium in women’s health and gynecology. Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology [Internet]. 2016 Apr 7 [cited 2023 Mar 3];6(5):325–33. Available from: http://www.scirp.org/Journal/Paperabs.aspx?paperid=66098
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