Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of proteins, plays a role in DNA and RNA synthesis. Magnesium is also vital for maintaining bone health and muscles recovery.
About 60% of the magnesium in your body is found in your bones, where it works closely with other minerals like calcium and phosphorus to maintain bone density and strength. If your magnesium levels are too low, your bones can become weaker.
This blog explores how magnesium supplementation can benefit both bone health and muscle performance.
Magnesium and Bone Health
Calcium and vitamin D are commonly associated with bone health. However, magnesium is equally important in maintaining a strong skeletal system.
Bone Density
Studies have shown that individuals with higher magnesium intake tend to have better bone density. Magnesium works alongside calcium and other minerals to ensure that bones remain strong and less prone to breakage. A lack of magnesium in the diet can increase fracture risks and contribute to conditions like osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women who are at greater risk for bone density loss.
Calcium Absorption
Magnesium is important for bone health because it helps with calcium control and absorption, both of which are necessary for strong bones. Calcium is the primary mineral in bones, but without enough magnesium, the body cannot properly metabolise and utilise calcium to strengthen the bone structure.
Magnesium helps the kidneys activate vitamin D, which is required for calcium absorption in the intestines. It ensures that calcium is efficiently used by the body rather than being deposited in soft tissues.
Bone Mineralisation and Remodelling
Magnesium plays a crucial role in bone mineralisation by influencing parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D levels, which play a crucial role in calcium regulation. Calcium absorption is reduced when magnesium levels are low, resulting in weak bones.
Magnesium is also necessary for bone remodelling as it stimulates osteoblasts, the cells responsible for forming new bone. This ensures the bones remain strong and flexible throughout life.
Magnesium and Muscle Health
Magnesium is just as important for muscle function as it is for bones. Your muscles need magnesium to stay healthy and functional, no matter if you’re an athlete or simply deal with everyday muscle strain.
Muscle Relaxation and Contraction
Magnesium helps regulate muscle contractions. As you exercise or move, magnesium helps your muscles relax after contracting. Insufficient magnesium may cause cramps or spasms if muscles stay in a state of contraction for longer. During prolonged physical activity, magnesium is lost through sweat, which is why it is often used to treat muscle cramps in athletes.
Prevents Muscle Fatigue
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy carrier in your cells, and magnesium plays a key role in its production. Maintaining optimal magnesium levels can improve muscle endurance and reduce the risk of fatigue during prolonged exercise.
Reduces Muscle Pain and Soreness
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce muscle soreness after exercise. It is common for athletes to experience delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after an intense workout. In addition to alleviating these aches and pains, magnesium can speed up recovery and enable you to return to your peak performance more quickly.
Magnesium Deficiency: How It Affects Bones and Muscles
If you’re not getting enough magnesium in your diet, you could be at risk for several health issues related to your bones and muscles. Here’s what magnesium deficiency might look like:
Weak bones
Low magnesium levels can prevent proper calcium absorption, leading to brittle bones and an increased risk of fractures.
Muscle cramps
Magnesium deficiencies can lead to painful cramps or spasms due to excessive muscle contraction.
Fatigue and weakness
Magnesium deficiency can cause fatigue, reduced energy production, and weak muscles.
Increased risk of injuries
Not having enough magnesium can make you more susceptible to injuries during physical activity, whether it’s bones that are more prone to breaking or muscles that cramp easily.
Get Quick Pain Relief With Oriel Magnesium Gel
When considering magnesium supplementation, choosing a product that suits your lifestyle is essential. A topical magnesium gel is the best option for those looking for quick relief from muscle aches. The Oriel Magnesium Gel Sports for Muscles & Joints Pain is designed to be easily absorbed through the skin to relieve sore muscles and joints directly.
Essential Features
- Rapid absorption and bioavailability deliver rapid relief where you need it.
- Simultaneously speeding up the recovery phase and reducing DOMS.
- Electrolyte replacement delivers energy to surrounding tissue.
- Anti-bacterial and Hypo-allergenic.
- Soothing water-based gel with no sticky residue or odour.
Its high-quality magnesium-rich formula makes it a great option for athletes or anyone experiencing muscle discomfort. This gel is non-greasy and won’t leave behind any sticky residue, so you can comfortably go about your day. Order your gel today, and don’t let your pains hinder your active lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does magnesium help with joint pain and stiffness?
Magnesium is beneficial to those suffering from arthritis and other joint disorders because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and stiffness. It also promotes collagen production, which is important for joint health and connective tissues.
Can I use magnesium gel if I’m already taking an oral magnesium supplement?
Yes, you can use magnesium gel in addition to oral supplements. Topical magnesium applications can provide targeted relief to sore muscles and joints, while oral supplements help maintain overall magnesium levels in the body.
How quickly can I expect muscle pain relief from magnesium gel?
Magnesium gel is absorbed quickly through the skin, so many people experience relief within a few minutes to an hour after application, depending on the severity of the muscle or joint pain.