There has been a recent surge in information on reels and online about the positive effects of magnesium supplements on mental health. Influencers on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are sharing their positive experiences after taking magnesium supplements – they recommend magnesium supplements to reduce anxiety and have a positive effect on mental health.
However, how much truth is there in this information? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sheetal Goyal, neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said, “Magnesium helps reduce anxiety due to its role in various biochemical processes and neurotransmitter regulation in the brain.” Here’s how magnesium can have a positive impact on mental health and help reduce symptoms of anxiety.
Neurotransmitter regulation:
Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which affects mood. Adequate magnesium levels may support serotonin synthesis and function, potentially reducing anxiety.
GABA regulation:
Magnesium may increase the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain. GABA helps reduce neuronal excitability, promote relaxation, and reduce anxiety.
stress response:
Magnesium is involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the stress response. Adequate magnesium levels can reduce the effects of stress hormones such as cortisol, thus effectively reducing symptoms of anxiety.
Muscle relaxation:
Muscle tension is often associated with anxiety, and adequate magnesium levels can help relieve physical symptoms of anxiety, such as muscle cramps and tension headaches.
Promotes sleep:
Magnesium may improve sleep quality by regulating a hormone called melatonin, which controls the sleep-wake cycle. Better sleep may lead to lower anxiety levels.
Cardiovascular Support:
Magnesium promotes cardio-vascular health, and adequate levels may reduce the risk of heart palpitations and other physical symptoms that resemble anxiety and other mental health conditions.
general well-being:
Magnesium deficiency can increase symptoms of anxiety. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake through diet or supplements can improve overall health – this can further help control anxiety.
