Magnesium is necessary for many different body functions; however, some studies claim that one in three Australians do not meet their recommended amount.

This element is important for all people, but especially for athletes. Magnesium is important for athletes primarily because they regularly and strenuously engage their muscles. The more that muscles are engaged, the more lactic acid that builds up in the tissue. Magnesium helps manage the amount of lactic acid.

Of course, this is not the only important role that magnesium plays in the body. Keep reading to find out more!

What Does Magnesium Do?

There are many things magnesium does – it helps create things in the body, like bone, DNA, and protein. Magnesium helps regulate body functions, like muscles, nerves, blood sugar, and blood pressure.

Magnesium is like a helper molecule. Without it, bodily functions will struggle to do their jobs properly. For example, without magnesium, the liver and muscles will struggle to properly absorb blood sugar into the bloodstream. However, that’s just one of the many important roles that magnesium has in the body.

Why Magnesium Is Important for Athletes

All human beings need a sufficient amount of magnesium to lead healthy lives. However, athletes typically need more magnesium than less active people. Studies show that active people use more magnesium because of magnesium’s role in the muscles. They also lose a lot of magnesium through sweat.

As a helper molecule, magnesium helps the muscles. It helps deliver blood sugar and remove lactic acid build-up. Without magnesium, athletic performance is impaired. One side effect is muscle cramping from too much lactic acid.

Signs of Magnesium Deficiency

Some common signs of magnesium deficiency include:

• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Cramping
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Abnormal heart rhythms

As the deficiency worsens, these symptoms can get much worse. They can progress to seizures, personality changes, and heart spasms.

Some groups of people are more susceptible to magnesium deficiency than others. These groups include the elderly, people with type 2 diabetes, those with chronic alcoholism, and those with gastrointestinal diseases.

How to Get More Magnesium

The best way to get more magnesium is to eat more magnesium-rich foods. This list is primarily foods with dietary fibre, like leafy green vegetables. Beans and seeds are a good place to start enriching your diet.

Sports drinks like Staminade (with added magnesium) are another easy, convenient way to get more magnesium. They are a good option to use in conjunction with eating magnesium-rich foods.

Note: Not all sports drinks contain magnesium – be sure to check the label.

Supplements for magnesium are a third option, however, should only be taken under professional supervision.

Buying Magnesium-Rich Products

It is important for athletes to have magnesium to keep their muscles functioning well. If you suspect you are magnesium deficient, visit your primary care physician to get your levels checked.

To find out more about our delicious, sports drink powder with added magnesium, check out our page about Staminade.

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