ALL ABOUT MAGNESIUM

Story by Meredith Nelson / September 20, 2017

TRAINER’S TIPS

“The Importance of Magnesium”

By Liane Siewald

Magnesium – are you getting enough? Did you know magnesium is one of the most neglected nutrients of our diets? Even in our rich food supply, many people are still magnesium deficient.  Exercise coupled with daily stress can deplete our stores, and food doesn’t always replenish the needed amounts for all that our bodies do on a given day.

Why is it important? 

Magnesium is a mineral found in the earth, the ocean, plants, animals and humans.

Every cell in your body contains magnesium and it is used for over 600 bodily functions. In fact, every cell needs magnesium to function. It is one of the gate-keepers and “helper” molecules of our cells that allows other nutrients to pass in and out.

Just over 60% of the magnesium in your body is found in your bones, while the remainder is in your muscles, body fluids and other soft tissue. Because only 1% of the mag in your body is stored in your blood, it doesn’t show up on a blood test, which makes magnesium deficiency so under diagnosed!

Here is my top 10 list of why you should consider making sure your magnesium intake is on par:

  • 1. Energy creation: Helps convert food into energy.
  • 2. Protein formation: Helps create new proteins from amino acids
  • 3. Magnesium helps the body break down sugars and might help reduce the risk of insulin resistance.
  • 4. Gene maintenance: Helps create and also repair DNA and RNA.
  • 5. Nerve function: Helps with regulating neurotransmissions- the messages the brain and nervous system relay to each other.
  • 6. Muscle movements: Is essential for the contraction and relaxation of muscles. Muscle cramps are generally signs of low magnesium or electrolytes. Supplementing with magnesium can greatly reduce muscle cramping after exercise and loss of fluids in high temps/humidity.
  • 7. Bone formation: Is essential in bone mineral density and helps ward off osteoporosis.
  • 8. Blood pressure regulation: Helps the heart muscle with proper contractions and valve regulation
  • 9. Proper bowel function: Aids in digestion and waste elimination
  • 10.  Better sleep: Who doesn’t need better sleep! Magnesium has a calming/quiet effect on the brain which in turn will help in relaxation and overall sense of calmness.

***Magnesium has also been linked to reducing migraines and constipation!

Here is a list of the top foods with the greatest amount of bioavailable magnesium. Try adding some to your daily intake!

Almonds – Spinach – Chard – Yogurt – Black beans – Figs – Bananas

If you can’t get enough magnesium with food alone, try a supplement with the correct mineral ratio.  I love and suggest the supplement called Calm from Nature’s Balance. I have had great feedback and my own great experience with this particular supplement. However, there are many other supplements out there and choosing one that works well for YOU is key!

I worked out with Meredith for years before she (sadly) moved away. She is creative, fun, and great at correcting your form. She can adapt to injuries you might have. She will incorporate things you like (yoga) and can work with all types of exercise equipment from machines to bands to TRX to free weights to your body weight. No two workouts are the same, which means you do not get bored and you want to keep coming back!

— Marie Louise R, Mt. Pleasant

Meredith first sought to truly understand my fitness goals and then observed my current weight-training routine.  She then helped me organize a workout plan that gave me better results, in the same amount of time.  Now I have a more balanced routine that is producing better results, in the same amount of time, with the same amount of effort. She always had my work within my comfort level and has helped me develop a more balanced program that maximizes the results.

— Rudy V, Beaufort/St. Helena

I found my happy place at home with Meredith and Primetime Fitness.  I started virtual training with Meredith at the beginning of Covid and now virtual training is part of my weekly routine.  What a joy to get a great workout and not have to leave the house! Thanks, Meredith!

— Mark P, Mt. Pleasant

I’ve been taking Meredith’s classes for a few short months and also doing some training sessions with her, and it has already made me stronger.  I love that she offers lower-impact options (for this 58-year-old) and also motivates all of us during class!

— Marie F, Beaufort/St. Helena

I was recently diagnosed as a Type 2 Diabetic.  I had worked out with Meredith once before, but at the time, I just wasn’t dedicated to a routine.  As soon as I was diagnosed, I shot her a quick email, and she immediately responded. We met and discussed diet and exercise; she was a wealth of information. I started working out with her and figuring out what routine spoke best to me. She helped me set up a Peloton bike and monitored my form. Hey, if this 65-year-old woman can get in shape, anyone can. I’m 15 pounds down and on the right track. Thanks, Meredith!

— Becky T, Beaufort/St. Helena