Why Magnesium Deficiency Is More Common Than Ever—and Why It’s Trending
Why Are We Deficient in Magnesium?
Magnesium, an essential mineral for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, plays a key role in muscle function, nerve health, and energy production. Yet, magnesium deficiencies are on the rise. Here’s why:
1. Modern Farming Practices
Industrial agriculture has depleted magnesium levels in soil. With less magnesium in the soil, crops grown today have lower magnesium content, meaning the fruits and vegetables we eat are less nutrient-dense than those our grandparents consumed.
2. Processed Foods Dominate Diets
Highly processed foods, which dominate modern diets, are often stripped of magnesium during production. Unfortunately, convenience foods replace whole foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens that are rich in this vital mineral.
3. Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Chronic stress increases magnesium excretion through urine. Combine this with caffeine and alcohol consumption—both of which deplete magnesium—and it’s clear how easily deficiency can occur in busy, high-stress lifestyles.
4. Medical and Environmental Factors
Common medications like antacids and diuretics interfere with magnesium absorption. Additionally, modern water filtration methods, while essential for removing harmful contaminants, also remove natural magnesium content from tap water.
Why Is Magnesium “All the Rage”?
Magnesium supplementation has gone viral online for good reason. People are discovering how this mineral supports everything from improved sleep to reduced anxiety. It’s no longer just about treating deficiency; it’s about optimizing health.
Trending Uses for Magnesium
Sleep Support:
Magnesium calms the nervous system, helping many people achieve deeper, more restorative sleep.
Stress Relief:
It helps regulate cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, and promotes relaxation.
Muscle Recovery:
Popular in the fitness world, magnesium aids muscle repair and prevents cramps.
Heart Health:
It supports healthy blood pressure and prevents arterial calcification.
How to Ensure You’re Getting Enough Magnesium
Diet First:
Incorporate foods like spinach, almonds, avocados, and black beans.
Supplementation:
For those with higher needs or absorption issues, supplements like magnesium glycinate are highly effective and gentle on digestion.
Ask Dr. Jeff!
At Newman Chiropractic, we take a personalized approach to supplementation. If you’re wondering whether magnesium might help with stress, sleep, or overall health, book a session or ask about our Fullscript Dispensary for access to trusted, high-quality supplements.
Magnesium may seem trendy, but its benefits are time-tested. Whether through diet or supplementation, replenishing your magnesium levels could be the key to better health and resilience.
Have questions? Share your experiences with magnesium in the comments or ask Dr. Jeff during your next visit!
