Magnesium is a type of mineral that our body depends on to fulfill numerous functions. This mineral is essential in more than 300 enzyme systems, which is why it helps multiple biochemical reactions, such as muscle and nerve function, regulation of blood pressure, protein synthesis, and control of blood glucose. The magnesium helps with depression and other illnesses associated with depression, and that is one of its important roles to be taken into account.
Magnesium is classified as a macromineral. In the body, it is the second most common electrolyte. Deficiencies related to this mineral are not uncommon in the modern world. Researchers have linked magnesium deficiency and depression in multiple studies.
People suffering from depression may consider increasing their intake of magnesium to determine if a deficiency of this essential mineral is what is affecting them in the first place.
How does magnesium affect depression?
In 2016, the US National Institute of Mental Health concluded that approximately 16.2 million American adults have experienced at least one episode of major depression.
An episode of major depression occurs when, for at least two weeks, the individual has had a loss of interest or depressed mood along with at least four other symptoms that impair their ability to function normally
Other symptoms may include problems with sleep, energy, self-image, eating, concentrating, or thoughts of suicide or death.
People with depression can also experience a multitude of physical symptoms that can further complicate this condition. These may include:
· Premenstrual syndrome
· Back pain
· Migraines and general headaches
· Chest pain (particularly during an anxiety attack)
· Muscle pains
· Digestive problems
· Joint pain
· Fatigue and exhaustion
Magnesium Helps with Depression in These 5 Ways
Depression is complex. Experts believe that the important factors that cause it are a combination of brain chemistry, inherited traits, biological differences, and hormones. Magnesium has an impact on brain chemistry and hormones.
Magnesium is good for hormones
Hormonal balance is essential for your mood and general well-being. The following is a description of how magnesium can benefit your hormones:
This mineral plays an important role in regulating cortisol levels, as it prevents excessive cortisol production due to its ability to calm the nervous system.
When you're in a state of stress, this can cause your body to release more cortisol. Keeping the nervous system calm can reduce the impact of stress.
The balance of this hormone is also very important to maintain the balance of progesterone, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, estrogen and follicle stimulating hormone.
When the thyroid is not active, symptoms of depression can occur, so keeping it healthy is a priority. Magnesium helps the production of thyroid hormone. And it can also provide thyroid protective benefits with its anti-inflammatory properties.
Magnesium is essential in the creation of certain hormones in the body, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This is important for when patients begin to age and their reproductive hormones begin to decline naturally.
This mineral is of great importance for reducing sugar cravings and balancing blood sugar, as it helps control insulin production. While this is important for everyone in general, it is even more so for those with conditions that can negatively affect insulin, such as diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Magnesium for good sleep and energy recovery
Depression often contributes to difficulty sleeping and low energy levels. Magnesium is often recommended for those who have a hard time falling asleep and resting at night.
Another way its benefits sleep health is that it can reduce the occurrence of chronic nocturnal urination, which helps prevent a person from getting up very often to go to the bathroom.
Magnesium helps with depression because it helps maintain healthy levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) which helps to have a deeper and more restful sleep easier.
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). Activation of GABA receptors is important to promote sleep. In order for the body to have sufficient levels of GABA, it also needs adequate amounts of magnesium.
Several prescription sleep medications work on GABA to promote sleep. These help GABA bind to proper brain receptors. Magnesium has the same effect but without the risk of significant side effects.
Restless legs syndrome is a condition that can significantly disrupt sleep because it is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs. Those affected feel that they have to keep moving their legs to relieve the sensations. In some cases, the arms can also be affected. Restless legs syndrome is estimated to affect up to 15 percent of the adult population. It is often associated with anxiety and depression.
One study showed that magnesium can help reduce the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Patients who participated in the study said their restless leg syndrome and insomnia were alleviated by magnesium supplements.
One of the most important ways that magnesium promotes optimal energy levels is by helping people get restful sleep. It also calms the nervous system and helps relieve anxiety. However, it also directly affects energy at the cellular level.
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depends on magnesium for its production. Furthermore, for ATP to be biologically active, it has to essentially bind with magnesium. Once this union takes place, numerous bodily processes are enhanced. This includes almost all metabolic processes, some of which are necessary for the body to digest food and convert it into energy.
The food you eat plays a key aspect in determining your overall health and immunity. Eat low carb diets, as this will help control high blood sugar and pressure. A low carb diet will help slow down diabetes and focus on a protein-rich diet to keep you in good shape. And regularly consume vegetables and fruits rich in Beta carotene, Ascorbic acid & other essential vitamins. Certain foods like mushrooms, tomato, bell pepper and green vegetables like broccoli, spinach are also good options to build resilience in the body against infections.