London, England – Magnesium has become the latest trend across social media, with celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Taylor Swift, and Lenny Kravitz endorsing its various benefits. From improving sleep to boosting energy levels, this mineral has gained immense popularity as a supplement. With 3.3 million monthly searches on Google and over 951,000 hashtags on Instagram, magnesium has become the most googled supplement in the past year. It’s no surprise that people are turning to magnesium for a solution to a range of issues, including stress and muscle function, among others.
As a key nutrient required by the body to maintain overall health, magnesium plays a crucial role in over 600 enzymatic reactions. Dr. Elise Dallas, a GP at the London General Practice, highlights its significance in nerve function, heart health, immune support, and DNA repair. Despite its essential role in the body, magnesium deficiency can lead to various chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and osteoporosis. However, its most notable connection is with sleep, as explained by Dr. Sophie Bostock of The Sleep Scientist.
While a healthy diet can typically provide the recommended daily intake of magnesium, many individuals may still be deficient due to various factors like age, exercise, and alcohol consumption. Certain groups such as perimenopausal women and individuals engaging in intense physical activities may benefit from a magnesium supplement to maintain optimal levels. However, the efficacy of magnesium supplements in improving sleep remains unclear, with studies showing modest results in terms of sleep quality and latency.
Different forms of magnesium supplements are available in the market, each claiming to offer unique benefits. From magnesium citrate to magnesium glycinate, these variations are marketed for specific purposes, such as improving sleep quality or heart health. However, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, leaving many consumers questioning the true effectiveness of these different forms. Despite the high demand for magnesium supplements, experts suggest caution in choosing brands, as more expensive options do not necessarily equate to better quality. Third-party testing and a full list of ingredients are essential criteria to consider when selecting a supplement.