Magnesium for the bones and joints.

Magnesium is required for the formation of the outside shell and inner matrix of our bones. It is also required for the creation of the hormone calcitonin, which is used to keep calcium inside the bones and preserve their structure and strength. This process prevents calcium from being deposited elsewhere in the body, such as the joints, tendons and cartilage.

Adequate magnesium levels facilitate bone growth in children and bone density during adulthood. Magnesium deficiency can compromise bone structure and lead to brittle skeletal support.

In addition, our skeletons store magnesium for use in the rest of the body. One such use is facilitation of Vitamin D absorption: the enzymes that metabolise vitamin D need magnesium in order to work effectively.

All the above considered, it is vital that our bones have an adequate supply of magnesium at all times.

Magnesium and osteoporosis of the bones

Osteoporosis is a condition that results in too little bone tissue – either through loss or inadequate production. The body should constantly be absorbing and replacing bone tissue. However, in those suffering with osteoporosis, new bone formation doesn’t keep up with old bone removal. This means that osteoporotic bones have extremely low density and contain abnormal tissue structure. The result is that the skeleton becomes weak and bone breakages occur easily, sometimes through minor falls and bumps. Osteoporosis translates to “porous bone” and was given this name because affected bones look like a sparse honeycomb when viewed under a microscope. These brittle bones are most likely to occur in the hips, spine and wrists.

This ailment is quite common in elderly people and experts estimate that one in two women, or one in four men, over the age of 50 will break a bone at some stage due to osteoporosis.

Most patients have no idea that their bone density has decreased until they have a minor fall and fracture or break a bone. Treatment for osteoporosis includes medicine, a balanced diet and exercise. Magnesium supplementation can be used in addition to these remedies in order to prevent bone loss and promote the production of calcium, which improves bone formation and strength.

Magnesium for the joints

Cartilage and joints also require magnesium for optimal performance and health. These structures undergo much wear and tear throughout one’s life, and magnesium is required for their preservation. Millions of South Africans deal with chronic joint pain, such as arthritis, on a daily basis. Experts predict that half of all citizens could be suffering with some form of joint ailment.

Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties which can help minimise swelling and pain associated with osteoarthritis and other joint diseases. It does so by moving blood sugar into the surrounding muscles and reducing the protein markers in the body that cause inflammation. This makes magnesium effective for the treatment of the painful symptoms associated with arthritis.

In a recent study published by the British National Library of Medicine, it was shown that low magnesium intake can result in joint pain. Over 2 500 participants were observed during the study. Researchers concluded that magnesium mediates bone and muscle metabolism, inflammation and pain signals. Therefore, a deficiency of magnesium results in worse joint pain and degraded functioning of the knees, elbows, wrists and fingers.

This essential mineral plays a large role in hundreds of bodily functions. Magnesium is involved in the production, maintenance and repair of bones. It also has benefits for the joints. When these health benefits are considered, it seems obvious that all adults and elderly people should be taking magnesium supplements to maintain their health and mobility. Try our Mag 2 powder as a delicious daily supplement. Simply add it to food, smoothies or a glass of cold water and get your health back.