Athletes and Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is needed by basically every cell in your body. But where does magnesium come from? What role does magnesium play in athletic performance? Are magnesium supplements necessary for all athletes? And, what are the signs of a magnesium deficiency? We at Nuun wanted to give you a quick overview of the science and strategy behind magnesium supplements.
To begin with its role in the body, magnesium plays a key part in over 300 chemical processes including muscle contraction and cardiac activity. Because of its role in muscle contraction and relaxations, magnesium is in especially high demand for bodies exercising. A lack of magnesium can lead to depleted energy, reduced power, and muscle cramps or spasms. Chronic magnesium deficiency has also been linked to reduced bone density, increased risk of anemia, depression, and irregular heart rate. Magnesium, just like electrolytes, is lost through sweat, so anyone breaking a sweat is in need of magnesium replenishment.
Magnesium also plays a crucial role in managing stress and promoting better sleep. People with a magnesium deficiency often report insomnia and restless sleep sessions. Magnesium plays a role in supporting deeper sleep and relaxation by maintaining healthy levels of GABA (a neurotransmitter involved in sleep and relaxation).
Since magnesium is not produced by the body, most people get this essential nutrient by eating foods that contain magnesium. Foods like leafy greens or some nuts and seeds are good sources, and Pumpkin seeds are especially high in magnesium. However, despite the readily available magnesium in many food items, dietary surveys of the population indicate that about 70% of people are not consuming enough magnesium. For athletes, because their body demands higher than average magnesium amounts, the supplementation of magnesium is especially important.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a hot mug of Nuun Rest, then you’re already acquainted with magnesium as an ingredient. It’s the sediment that you swish and swirl in your Nuun Rest cup!
Nuun Rest was designed to aid in magnesium consumptions for athletes but can benefit anyone looking to support their body’s natural relaxation processes and supplement their diet with more magnesium.
Magnesium supplements can be made with magnesium sourced from the ground or the ocean. Nuun’s magnesium is sourced from the ocean because we believe it is a cleaner, more sustainable source of the nutrient. The daily recommended serving of magnesium for adults starts at 300mg.
Nuun Rest also contains electrolytes and powerful botanicals that work with your body to melt away stress and tension. Whether you’ve had a tough day at the gym or a rough day at work, Nuun Rest is a great way to supplement your magnesium intake and support natural relaxation.
