Magnesium: The Mineral That Does (Almost) Everything
Magnesium is behind over 300 functions in the body, from muscle contraction and nerve signaling to blood sugar balance and stress regulation. It also plays a big role in energy production, hormone balance, and keeping your heart rhythm steady. But it’s one of those minerals you don’t think about until you’re low, and then you feel it.
Processed food, certain medications, and even intense workouts can deplete your magnesium quickly. And when you’re stressed? Your body dumps even more magnesium through urine than normal. That’s one reason high-stress seasons can leave you feeling wired, tired, and dealing with that eyelid twitch that won’t quit.
So how do you know if you’re low? Your body will usually send a few signals.
Signs To Look For:
- Muscle cramps or twitching
- Headaches or migraines
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Constipation
- Anxiety or trouble sleeping
- Irregular heartbeat
Best approach? I will always push food first. Focus on magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate. Then use supplements to fill gaps based on your symptoms and needs.
If you’re supplementing, the type you choose matters:
- Magnesium glycinate – gentle on the gut and great for calming muscles, easing cramps, and improving sleep
- Magnesium L-threonate – crosses the blood–brain barrier, supports brain health, focus, and turning off that racing, anxious mind
- Magnesium citrate – helps draw water into the intestines, making it a go-to for relieving constipation
- Magnesium malate – supports energy production and may help with muscle soreness or chronic fatigue
- Magnesium taurate – pairs well with heart health and may support healthy blood pressure
