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Exercise plays a key role in our health and wellness. Strong muscle activity is important in our blood and lymph system circulation, and aids us in clearing toxins and waste products from our cells. Oxygen can be more readily delivered to our cells as well, aiding in cleansing and supporting our general health. Good nutritional support is important for providing the minerals needed for healthy muscular function.

Maintaining healthy muscle tissue is vital for our overall health. Magnesium plays an important role in that function, supporting our muscles in their intake of oxygen, production of energy, and the balance of electrolytes.

Studies have been conducted on the affect of the magnesium balance in the body. The U.S. Department of Agriculture at the Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center in Grand Forks North Dakota researched the ties between magnesium and exercise. This study reviewed the typical magnesium levels and the average diet, magnesium deficiencies, and the value of magnesium in sports and fitness.

Does the amount of magnesium we carry in the body affect our ability to perform? Sweating and urination increases with intense physical activity such as exercise, and with that our magnesium supply can decrease as much as 20 percent. With magnesium balances tied to over 300 key body functions it is worth reviewing the connection between health, fitness through exercise, and mineral balance.

The typical American diet does not contain enough magnesium. Often those levels are less than 260 mg/day in male atheletes, and less than 220 mg/day for female atheletes. These levels are considered to be deficient for magnesium. Other studies show that over 75 percent of our population is deficient in this vital electrolyte mineral.

It was clearly noted in the study conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that adequate magnesium levels do aid in our exercise performance. Still, there is no conclusive measurable evidence that increased magnesium translates directly into improved athletic performance. Overall, having an adequate magnesium balance in the body supports and aids in proper function of the heart, muscles, skin and just about every other part of the body.

In our attempts to maintain and improve our health, it is important to consider the vitamin and mineral balances in the body for the support they provide in normal cellular function. Continued research into the affect of magnesium in peak performance will surely show that the simple electrolyte is worthy of consideration.

There are many ways we introduce additional magnesium in our diet. A healthy fresh diet containing many fruits and vegetables will provide much of our magnesium. Magnesium has also been found to be easily absorbed, in specially prepared forms, transdermally, or through the skin. Transdermally applied magnesium has been used for healing of damaged muscles, skin health, lymphatic function, relaxation, and promoting restful sleep.

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