This supplement has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved sleep, anti-inflammatory effects on the body, insulin regulation and regulating the metabolism
Supplements have long been promoted on the market for a long list of health benefits, but with so many available, it can be daunting to choose one that will actually work for you.
Thankfully, a GP has revealed one particular supplement that has numerous benefits, from getting a better nights sleep to controlling blood sugar levels.
Magnesium supplements are widely available on the market, from your local high street pharmacy to online websites. But what are the benefits? Dr Grant, a Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has revealed some of the top benefits of taking magnesium regularly.
Boosting metabolism
“Magnesium plays an essential role in regulating metabolism,” he reveals. “This is the process by which the body converts food and drink into energy. It helps activate many reactions in the body needed for this process.
“It contributes to effective glucose oxidation, which is a process of converting glucose (a type of sugar) into energy, fat-burning, building proteins, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids.” By improving metabolic function, it can help increase calorie and fat burning – even during rest.
Insulin regulation
Magnesium can also help with controlling blood sugar levels, making it a popular supplement choice for those with conditions causing hypoglycemia. “Magnesium also affects weight by regulating insulin, one of the key hormones involved in fat storage,” Dr Grant reveals.
“Proper insulin function is essential for the body to manage blood sugar effectively. Magnesium helps your body use insulin more effectively, which is important for controlling blood sugar levels.”
Reducing inflammation
Chronic inflammation is associated with obesity, impaired metabolism and difficulties losing weight. “Magnesium has a natural anti-inflammatory effect on the body,” Dr Grant says. “Embracing a regimen that includes 200-400 mg of magnesium daily may provide a gentle nudge in reducing inflammation.”
Regulating cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone from our adrenal glands which can play tricks on our appetite and cravings. “While it has some important functions, elevated cortisol levels lead to increased appetite, cravings for unhealthy food, and greater fat accumulation around the abdomen,” Dr Grant adds.
“Magnesium helps manage the body’s response to stress by controlling the hormone cortisol. Studies show supplementing with magnesium can promote lower cortisol levels under stress.”
Supporting sleep
There are lots of supplements marketed at improving sleep, but according to Dr Grant, magnesium is one of the best you can get. “Magnesium helps you sleep better by relaxing your muscles naturally,” he says.
“Poor and insufficient sleep promotes overeating and disrupts hormones like ghrelin (hunger hormone) and leptin (helps to signal when you’re full), which regulate appetite and fat burning.”