What’s Fresh? Magnesium

By Pat Ellis

What mineral is found in every cell of the body, is a helper molecule participating in over 600 reactions, including but not limited to:

-Converting food into energy

-Creating new proteins from amino acids

-Helping to create and repair DNA and RNA

-Aiding in muscle contraction and relaxation and 

-Regulating the nervous system?

If you answered magnesium, you are correct!

Despite this impressive benefits list, 50% of all people are magnesium deficient.  

My introduction to the mineral came from a naturopathic physician who recommended that I add magnesium in its glycinate form to improve my sleep patterns. Magnesium appears to help regulate the neurotransmitters that promote sleep, such as GABA, which helps calm the nervous system and can reduce insomnia symptoms. Magnesium may also play a role in regulating melatonin, a hormone that influences the body's sleep-wake cycle. The glycinate form is highly bioavailable and gentle on the stomach. 

You can find this glycinate form in our Wellness Department. One brand we carry is Trace Minerals Research (TMR), an industry leader with over 50 years of experience and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certified. That certification is a quality seal that assures consumers that formulation and testing are carried out in strict compliance to industry best practices. GMP is a mandate for the pharmaceutical industry but not always found in over-the-counter manufacturing.

You will also find Honest Weight’s high quality store brand which is also manufactured in a GMP facility. HWFC’s  brand offers a higher dosage at a slightly lower cost.

As always, check with your health care professional before adding this or any supplement to your routine to ensure no negative interactions.

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