Magnesium Deficiency and Brain Health

Guosong Liu, Director of the Center for Learning and Memory at Tsinghua University in Beijing stated, “Elevating brain magnesium content via increasing magnesium intake might be a useful new strategy to enhance cognitive abilities.”

The Effect Of Magnesium On The Brain

Byron Richards, CCN and author of Fight for Your Health, explains that the Chinese study showed magnesium’s effect on the brain cell’s synaptic plasticity: “… a key feature of nerve architecture that enables your brain to tolerate stress, recover from trauma, and make actual changes. Synaptic plasticity is based on having well-nourished and properly energized brain cells – compared to inflamed brain cells that have become damaged and ‘stuck in their ways’.”

Due to topsoil depletion from improper farming practices, most of the population is magnesium deficient. As we get older, less magnesium is present in our cells. Yet it takes around twice the amount of magnesium recommended for body health to enhance and preserve the brain’s optimum cognitive and memory functions.

While consuming 400 mg of magnesium is considered adequate for most general health purposes, nutritionist Richards recommends up to 1000 mg for optimum brain health.

Magnesium In Your Cells

Within the cells is where 80 percent of magnesium’s activity as a catalyst and synthesizing agent occurs. That’s why Dr. Otis Woodward, MD, a holistic physician who calls magnesium “the master mineral” recommends a red blood cell (RBC) test over a simple blood test to determine magnesium levels. “It can look good in your blood, but if it is not in your cells you won’t get the benefits.”

If RBC testing is not available or within your budget, kinesiology or muscle testing could also help determine your magnesium needs. So many symptoms of magnesium deficiency resemble so many others, fatigue, muscular tension, and irritability among others, that it’s difficult to determine by symptoms alone. It’s important to realize that long term magnesium deficiency is associated with many diseases, including cancer.

Medical Disclaimer:

The ideas, procedures and suggestions contained in this article are not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician.  All matters regarding your physical health require medical supervision. The NMA shall not be liable or responsible for any loss, injury or damage allegedly arising from any information or suggestion in this article. The opinions expressed in this article represent the personal views of the NMA.