The magic of magnesium!
THE MINERAL magnes ium is important both to enable the body to turn food into energy, and to promote bone health.
Every day it supports hundreds of chemical reactions in our systems, but studies show that less than half of us consume the recommended daily amount, even though it is present in many foods, such as green, leafy vegetables.
Magnesium is best known for helping reduce tiredness and fatigue — and fighting depression, lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation and insulin resistance.
The greatest challenge we face when consuming magnesium through our diet is the level we absorb into our bodies. That rate of takeup has a direct effect on the benefits we obtain.
One way to consume a consistent level is by taking a daily supplement, but not all supplements are equal. They face the same bioavailability challenges as food, and this varies depending on the source of magnesium used.
Magnesium is difficult to absorb because it is not water-soluble. This means that, for the body to take it in, it must be bound to another compound.
Most supplements use magnesium oxide, the most common form of the mineral. But this has a low absorption rate of only 4 per cent.
However, the magnesium supplements produced by a Cambridge-based company contain magnesium lactate.
Combining magnesium with highly soluble lactic acid raises the absorption rate to 45 per cent.
Large amounts of magnesium taken over a long period can affect the digestive system. But with a magnesium lactate supplement, you absorb at least a third more effective ingredients in a dose that is an amazing 88 per cent smaller — making it far easier on your stomach.