What is the link between magnesium and anxiety?
Magnesium is a micronutrient that plays many important roles in our body, one of which is reducing stress and anxiety. According to psychologist Anu Goel - Master of Psychology at Annamalai University (India), anxiety and stress significantly affect human cognitive function and behavioral responses. There is a relationship between magnesium reserves in the body and anxiety.
A study published in Nutrients looked at the effects of magnesium supplementation on anxiety and stress. It was found that 4 out of 8 participants had a significant reduction in anxiety after supplementing with magnesium.
How magnesium helps the body reduce anxiety
Regulate cortisol levels
Magnesium deficiency causes the body to release large amounts of cortisol, cortisol is a stress hormone, which in prolonged conditions can cause depression and anxiety.
Neurotransmitter regulation
Our brains have excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters. Maintaining the balance of these can help you better manage stress and anxiety. Magnesium helps maintain the balance and may even produce inhibitory neurotransmitters to prevent anxiety from getting worse.
Helps improve brain function
According to a study published in the journal Neuropharmacology, magnesium supplementation helps brain function reduce stress. It positively affects a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. This part is responsible for stress, regulating the pituitary gland and adrenal glands.
