Magnesium, you hear it often, but what does it actually do?

There are certain nutrients that suddenly seem to be popping up everywhere. Magnesium is one of them. You see it in the drugstore, on health blogs, and even your neighbor mentions it: "Are you taking magnesium? It helps so much with cramps." But is that really true? And is magnesium only interesting for (elite) athletes, or also for you and me, ordinary mortals who just want to live a somewhat healthy life?

What exactly is magnesium?

Let's start at the beginning. Magnesium is a mineral your body needs for all sorts of important processes. Think of your muscle and nerve function, your energy levels, your bones, and even your mood. Yes, really – magnesium plays a role in many things. You get it from foods like nuts, whole grains, spinach, bananas, and dark chocolate. But sometimes… that's not enough.

Is magnesium only for athletes?

Absolutely not. While athletes can indeed use more magnesium (you lose it through sweat), it's also relevant for non-athletes. Think of busy days, stress, hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, or simply when you're not feeling so great. Magnesium helps your body regain some balance in these situations. Not as a miracle cure, but as a support system.

And what about cramps?

Ah, the classic. "Magnesium for muscle cramps" has become practically folk wisdom. And there's a grain of truth in it. Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation. So if you often suffer from nighttime calf cramps or stiff muscles, a magnesium deficiency might have something to do with it. But—be careful—it's not the only cause of cramps. Are you drinking enough? Are you exercising properly? Are you sleeping enough? It's always the bigger picture that counts.

Also read: Migraine, more than just a headache

Migraine and magnesium: useful or nonsense?

This is an interesting one. Some studies show that people with migraines sometimes have lower magnesium levels. Therefore, magnesium is sometimes used as a supplemental preventative measure. It doesn't work for everyone, but it can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks in some people. Always consult your doctor if you're considering this.

Do you have to start taking supplements right away?

Not necessarily. If you eat healthily, you often already meet a large portion of your magnesium needs. But if you find yourself experiencing high levels of stress, poor sleep, frequent cramps, or migraines, a magnesium supplement can be helpful. Be sure to choose a readily absorbable form like magnesium citrate or bisglycinate, available from retailers such as Puur Mieke .

Curious?

Magnesium tablets aren't a magic wand, but they can certainly give you that extra boost when your body needs it. Want to see if they're right for you? Take a critical look at your lifestyle, diet, and symptoms. And feel free to consult a professional for personalized advice.

What's your experience with magnesium? Have you ever tried it, and if so, did you notice a difference? Let us know in the comments; we're curious!