Magnesium is a mineral that plays a critical role in a wide range of cellular processes. It is essential for the transport of ions such as potassium and calcium across cell membranes and cellular signaling.
In the central nervous system, magnesium is involved in the creation and transmission of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, glutamate and GABA. It also keeps these neurotransmitters within healthy limits, which helps to maintain a balanced brain and prevent disorders such as anxiety, irritability and depression.
It is important to ensure adequate levels of magnesium in the body, and if you are concerned you may be deficient, speak to a health professional about supplements. The best way to get enough is to eat a variety of foods, particularly those rich in magnesium such as legumes, nuts, seeds and wholegrains.
Some people, including those who are alcoholics or have gastrointestinal conditions, have lower levels of magnesium in their blood. This can lead to problems such as apathy, tiredness, concentration difficulties and irritability.
There is also evidence that low magnesium levels can contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions such as vascular calcification. This has led to researchers exploring the possibility of using magnesium as an anti-calcification agent in patients with CKD.
It is also thought that magnesium can help to reduce the severity of preterm labour and the resulting complications. However, more research is needed to fully assess the impact of this compound.
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