Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in numerous processes throughout the body. The role of magnesium for muscles comes to play in several different ways. For instance, magnesium helps regulate calcium levels in muscle cells. Calcium ions help muscles contract and magnesium acts as a natural calcium blocker, helping muscles relax after contracting. Magnesium also facilitates the communication between nerves and muscles, allowing muscles to function properly.
How do low magnesium levels affect muscles?
Healthy magnesium levels are important for multiple aspects of muscle function, including muscle relaxation and neuromuscular communication. When you don’t have sufficient magnesium for your muscles, it could have an impact on your muscle function and overall health. That’s why it’s important to ensure adequate daily magnesium intake through a balanced diet or supplementation.
What are the benefits of using magnesium supplements for muscle function?
Magnesium is a mineral your body uses to help muscles relax after contraction. It is also involved in neuromuscular communication. Replenishing your magnesium levels each day, especially when you exercise regularly, can support muscle health and function. In these ways, magnesium and muscle function are connected.
How much magnesium should I take to support muscle health?
The amount of supplemental magnesium a person should take to support muscle health depends on a variety of factors, including the individual’s age, gender and overall health needs. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the magnesium recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is between 310–320 mg per day for women over age 19 and between 400–420 mg per day for men over age 19. Athletes, or those engaging in regular intense exercise, may benefit from slightly higher magnesium intake to support muscle function. It’s always best to follow labeled dosage instructions on magnesium supplements, and consult your healthcare provider for individualized recommendations.
Does magnesium relax muscles?
Magnesium is effective at relaxing muscles. Magnesium citrate is highly absorbable and prized for its muscle-relaxing properties. All Natural Vitality CALM Magnesium Powder formulas feature magnesium carbonate and citric acid that, when combined with water, create a fizzy, sippable magnesium citrate solution. Another highly absorbable form of magnesium is magnesium glycinate. This, too, is well-known for supporting muscle relaxation.