Magnesium, what is it and why should I use it?
Vitamines
Magnesium is a hot topic these days. But what is it exactly, why should you pay attention to your magnesium intake, and are you getting enough through your daily diet? We'll discuss this and more in this blog post!
What is magnesium?
Magnesium is an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and is beneficial for muscle function. It's necessary for bone and muscle formation, among other things, and plays a role in proper muscle function and nerve impulse transmission. Your body cannot produce magnesium itself and must therefore obtain it from food. This absorption occurs at the end of the small intestine. The absorption of magnesium from food varies from 20 to 60%. This depends on the amount present in the food. The higher the content of the food, the lower the percentage your body absorbs (source: Netherlands Nutrition Centre).
Magnesium in food
You can find magnesium in various food sources, such as dairy products, dark leafy greens, whole grains like bread, legumes, nuts, meat, and even water. If you eat a healthy and varied diet, you can meet your magnesium needs from these sources. It's recommended for women to get 300 mg of magnesium daily and 350 mg for men. For reference, a slice of whole-wheat bread contains 19 grams, and a handful of unsalted peanuts contains 54 grams. Have you ever wondered if you're getting enough magnesium through your daily diet?
Not everyone gets the recommended daily amount of magnesium. This is usually due to a diet low in magnesium-containing foods, but an increased magnesium requirement or poor absorption can also play a role. In that case, a supplement can offer a solution.
Forms of magnesium in supplements
In Europe, there are 22 magnesium compounds approved for supplementation. They can be easily divided into organic compounds such as magnesium citrate, magnesium malate, and magnesium bisglycinate, and inorganic compounds such as magnesium oxide and magnesium chloride. The difference is that organic compounds are generally better absorbed by the body, while inorganic compounds are easier to take in small pills, like those found in a multivitamin.
Effect of magnesium
- Sports performance and muscles
Magnesium plays a role in maintaining strong and supple muscles. It can therefore be beneficial for athletes, including endurance athletes, to meet their increased magnesium needs, especially after intense exercise.
- Stress and nerve impulses
This mineral plays a role in the transmission of stimuli between (nerve) cells in the brain and therefore has a positive effect on mood. Magnesium can therefore be beneficial in stressful situations.
- Energy production and mental health
Magnesium contributes to energy-yielding metabolism, it supports energy levels and contributes to a clear mind.
Other important functions of magnesium:
Bone development: It plays a role in bone formation.
Electrolyte Balance: Magnesium helps maintain normal water and mineral balance in the body.
Medication use: If you are taking medications such as antacids, this can reduce the absorption of magnesium. Consult a doctor to determine whether taking additional magnesium supplements is advisable.
Yummygums Magnesium
Magnesium supplements often come in large, hard-to-swallow pills. That's why we offer a solution! Your daily magnesium supplement, but in a delicious, chewable, cherry-flavored gummy. Our Yummygums Magnesium contain 90 mg of magnesium citrate per gummy. With 1-2 gummies, you'll have a great addition to your daily diet. Want to try them yourself? Shop them here .