The magic of magnesium
I’ve got my zest for life back, says Sara
DO SIMPLE activities, such as gardening or going for a stroll, leave you feeling worn out? Do you often struggle to get out of bed in the mornings and lack energy during the day?
You’re not alone — people across the UK are battling with lethargy as we spend more time inside.
Our lack of energy may actually result from the insufficiency of a key nutrient, rather than less fresh air or simply getting older. The good news is that you can obtain it from a healthy diet and food supplements.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps muscles function correctly and keeps bones strong. And importantly, where fatigue is concerned, it is fundamental for energy production at a cellular level.
Nearly 70 per cent of adults in the UK are now taking food supplements to ensure that they are getting the right nutrition.
And, according to the 2019 Health of the Nation Survey released by the Health Food Manufacturers’ Association, 13.4 per cent of them are opting for magnesium — a figure which has almost doubled since 2016.
Less than half of people in the UK consume the recommended daily amount of the mineral — and increasing their intake can help bring back normal energy levels.
To assist, the scientific professionals at a nutritional supplement company that is based in Cambridge offer a supplement which helps to maintain levels of magnesium in your system.
Sara Carnegie-Brown (pictured), who is in her early 70s, says: ‘I’m usually quite sceptical about these things, but I have found taking this magnesium supplement has quite literally changed my life.
‘I like to keep myself busy with my allotment, looking after my own garden and doing Pilates, as well as seeing my network of girlfriends. After my husband died seven years ago, I felt tired and lacking in energy and had lost my natural zest for life.
‘I tried other supplements on the market, which had very little effect. I did my own research, as well as hearing good things about the company from friends, so decided to give its magnesium a try.
‘For me it was simply revolutionary. I feel more energised and more in tune with myself — it really works. I now begin to panic if I start to run out!’
Miriam Ferrer PhD, the company’s head of product development, explains: ‘The magnesium lactate used in the supplement is an organic form.
‘It’s at least twice as easy for the body to absorb as magnesium oxide, which is most commonly used in supplements. Magnesium oxide products may contain high amounts of the mineral but they tend to have a very low absorption rate, meaning they’re not easily released into the body.’
She adds: ‘Taking too much magnesium over a long period can affect the digestive system. But using the more absorbable lactate form means you actually take less per capsule, making it less likely to cause side-effects.’
MAGNESIUM contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal energy-yielding metabolism, muscle function and normal psychological function and the maintenance of normal bones.