Magnesium is vital for hundreds of the body's physiological functions, so having low levels of it could compromise your health in multiple ways. Here are half a dozen of the most important reasons you might need more magnesium, this essential mineral.

1. You may not be getting enough magnesium in your diet

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that the diets of more than one in three Australian adults don't provide the recommended amounts of magnesium. In older people, the likelihood of inadequate magnesium intake is even higher; almost half of all Australian women aged 71 or over, and more than 60% of men in the same age group consume less magnesium in their diets than is recommended.

2. Your energy levels are low

Magnesium is important for normal energy production, and plays a key role in the generation of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the compound that fuels the body’s cellular processes. If you’re low in energy, taking a magnesium supplement may help to reduce fatigue and support stamina and endurance.

3. You do a lot of exercise

Exercising regularly is one of the healthiest decisions you can make for your health, however if you want to perform at your best, it’s important to make sure that your nutritional status is at its best too. The electrolyte minerals are vital here, and (as many athletes have discovered the hard way), excessive mineral losses through sweat can cause cramping and other problems. If you exercise regularly, train hard or are prone to perspiring heavily, be aware that you may need magnesium in larger quantities than other people, and consider taking a supplement to help support healthy muscle function, relieve exercise-induced muscle soreness, maintain exercise performance, and enhance muscle recovery after exercise.

4. You suffer from muscle pain or cramps

Since it helps maintain normal muscle contraction and promotes muscle relaxation, magnesium may help a wide variety of painful muscular issues ranging from the generalised tension that comes from spending too long at your desk to excruciating night-time cramps and minor muscle twitches. It may also help to relieve menstrual pain, and have additional benefits for easing other premenstrual symptoms, including fluid retention and mood swings.

5. You want to maintain a healthy heart

Your heart is the busiest muscle in your body, working tirelessly to help keep you alive. Just like your other muscles, it needs magnesium in order to contract and relax effectively. If you’re a normal, healthy person, making sure your magnesium levels are optimal may help maintain the health of your heart and blood vessels by helping to keep your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar within the normal, healthy range.

6. You’re sleepless or stressed

Magnesium helps regulate many aspects of nervous system function, so may help to relieve mild anxiety, nervous tension and irritability, while also helping to promote restful sleep. It becomes particularly important during times of intense or prolonged stress, during which the body excretes more magnesium than usual in the urine, potentially exacerbating any dietary shortfalls that may already be present.

Choosing a magnesium supplement

When looking for a magnesium supplement, pay particular attention to the form of magnesium it contains, and ensure that you choose a formula that’s highly bioavailable and readily absorbed. Magnesium glycinate is a good example as it remains stable during digestion and is easily absorbed by the intestinal cells, and is available in both tablets and easy-to-take powder.

Mr Vitamins recommends

Fusion Health, premium quality Australian-made supplements that combine the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine and the science of modern Western herbalism, including:

• Fusion Magnesium Advanced Powder: Highly bioavailable muscle recovery powder with nutritional co-factors
• Fusion Magnesium Advanced: High potency formula with magnesium glycinate for enhanced absorption

Find out more and shop online for these Fusion Health Supplements here Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.