Why Magnesium Is Important For Women’s Health – Expert Explains

We are aware that magnesium is an essential mineral. Our body needs this nutrient to function properly. It is especially important for a healthy cardiovascular system, nerves, muscles, and bones. But did you know that magnesium plays a crucial role in women’s health? If you are wondering how, then read ahead.

To get an in-depth idea on this topic, we spoke to Dr N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. Let’s take a look at what the expert had to say.

Why Magnesium is Important For Women’s Health

Dr Lulla mentions that magnesium is very good for women’s health because it supports many important body functions.

She further explains, “It helps keep bones strong, which is especially important to prevent osteoporosis as women age. Magnesium also supports heart health by regulating blood pressure and heart rhythm. It helps reduce muscle cramps, PMS symptoms, and fatigue, and can improve sleep and mood. Magnesium plays a role in blood sugar control, lowering the risk of diabetes, and supports healthy pregnancy by helping the baby’s growth and preventing complications like high blood pressure.”

How Magnesium Regulates Female Hormones

Did you know that magnesium also plays a crucial role in regulating women’s hormones? “Magnesium helps regulate female hormones by supporting the balance of estrogen and progesterone, which are important for the menstrual cycle and reproductive health. It can reduce symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings, cramps, bloating, and fatigue, by calming the nervous system and relaxing muscles,” shares Dr Lulla.

The expert adds that magnesium also influences stress hormones like cortisol, helping to lower stress and improve mood. “During pregnancy, it supports hormonal balance to maintain a healthy pregnancy and prevent complications like high blood pressure. Low magnesium levels can worsen hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular periods, stronger PMS, or sleep and mood problems. Eating magnesium-rich foods or taking supplements under a doctor’s guidance can help maintain healthy female hormone levels,” says Dr Lulla.

How Magnesium Deficiency Affects Women

When a woman has a magnesium deficiency, her body may face several health problems.
“She can experience fatigue, muscle cramps, and weakness because magnesium helps muscles and nerves work properly. Low magnesium can worsen PMS symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and irritability. It may cause irregular periods and affect hormone balance. Magnesium deficiency can also increase stress, anxiety, and trouble sleeping because it helps regulate stress hormones and the nervous system. Over time, low magnesium may raise the risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, and osteoporosis since it is important for bones and the heart. Eating magnesium-rich foods or taking supplements under a doctor’s guidance can prevent these issues,” shares Dr Lulla.

Also Read: Can Magnesium Deficiency Be A Sign Of Liver Damage? Symptoms To Note

Natural Source Of Magnesium In Foods

We can get magnesium naturally from different healthy food variants. Dr Lulla suggests the following foods to add magnesium to your diet:

• Green leafy vegetables (like spinach, kale, and broccoli).
• Nuts and seeds (such as almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds).
• Whole grains (like brown rice, oats, and whole wheat).
• Legumes (such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas).
• Fruits (such as bananas, avocados, and dried figs).
• Fish (such as salmon and mackerel).
• Dark chocolate.

Can Magnesium Supplements Benefit Women?

Someone who is suffering from magnesium deficiency may have to take the nutrient in the form of supplements. But one must consult a professional before adding supplements to their diet.
“Magnesium supplements can benefit women by helping maintain healthy bones, muscles, and nerves. They can reduce PMS symptoms like cramps, bloating, mood swings, and fatigue by supporting hormone balance and relaxing muscles. Supplements may improve sleep and lower stress because magnesium helps calm the nervous system and regulate stress hormones. For women with low magnesium levels, supplements can support heart health by controlling blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart problems,” says Dr Lulla.

She adds, “During pregnancy, magnesium helps the baby’s growth and prevents complications like high blood pressure and preterm labour. Magnesium supplements are useful when dietary intake is not enough, but it is important to take them under a doctor’s guidance to avoid side effects.”

Also Read: Is Magnesium A Natural Way To Beat Brain Fog?

The Final Word

Magnesium is an essential mineral. It has multiple benefits, including playing a crucial role in regulating women’s hormones. Magnesium deficiency may lead to several health issues in women. Thus, it is important to have a magnesium-rich diet. In case you are suffering from its deficiency, consult a healthcare provider to seek advice on intake of magnesium supplements.