Magnesium (Mg) is essential for overall physical and
mental health. It is the 2nd most (after calcium which counters
magnesium) abundant mineral in the body and is necessary for the proper
function of every cell in your body. Mg is vital to muscle function, heart
rhythm, blood pressure, blood sugar regulation, protein formation, bone
development, hormonal action, DNA production and nerve tissue function.
Because of its role in
muscle function it has been used as a laxative for generations. The intestines are a
long muscular tube and Mg helps it work properly. A Japanese study with almost
4,000 women recently showed the direct link between constipation and Mg deficiency.
Mg deficiency maybe a more important cause of constipation than the intake of
water or dietary fiber.
Adequate Mg allows the
muscle walls of the intestines to be relaxed enough to generate a smooth
regular rhythm (peristalsis). Moreover, Mg attracts water into the colon and
softens the stool making it easier to pass. Together these actions relieve
constipation.
There are many
different types of Mg supplements including oxide, citrate, chelate, and
sulfate. The oxide form (Milk of Magnesia) is least absorbed and may
irritate the lower intestine. Mg citrate has proven to be most cost
effective and safest way to deal with constipation, especially, IBS related.
The recommended dosage is 400-800 Mg daily and can be adjusted to your personal
needs with respect to regular bowel movement.
The added benefits of Mg
is that it alleviates other disorders are related to Mg deficiency. Many of the
distress associated with IBS are stress related pointing to a problem of
nervous system. Since Mg is vital to the function of nerve cells, its deficiency
can cause depression and or anxiety; muscle spasm and cramps; cardiovascular disorder
and high blood pressure. All these issues involve the work of
Insufficient Mg in the
diet also reduces the pancreas ability to secrete insulin. This is the beginning
of insulin resistance and eventually leading to diabetes. Increasing your magnesium intake can have many benefits, some of which are experienced almost
overnight. You have nothing to lose and potentially so much to gain from this
wonderful mineral. Why not give Magnesium a try today!
2 comments:
Thank you for this article. I've been suffering from IBS-C for years and was so hopeful when Zelnorm was on the market and I was able to take it. Since it was pulled from the market in 2008, I have not found anything that works for me other than taking milk of magnesia every few days. I'm hopeful that the magnesium citrate will help me.
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