Magnesium is a mineral that is ever present in our bodies, and makes up a large portion of your daily nutritional needs. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus, your body contains 25 grams of magnesium through dietary intake. When magnesium levels are low, chemical brain processes are inhibited, causing depression and anxiety to become more pronounced. Women are statistically most at risk for magnesium deficiencies, states MedlinePlus, as well as African-Americans and the elderly population.
Anxiety
Anxiety is described by Medical News Today as a condition consisting of nervousness, fear, apprehension and extreme worrying. Although a general term, anxiety can range from mild to severe, causing complications in daily living. Outside factors such as alcoholism and drug addiction actually worsen anxiety symptoms by suppressing hormones needed to stabilize mood. Although highly treatable through medication and therapy, according to MedlinePlus, magnesium malate supplements may lessen anxiety in some individuals.
How Magnesium Malate Works
According to Dr. Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D., magnesium malate is one of the most common forms of magnesium, primarily used to treat fibromyalgia by breaking down excess lactic acids. Its benefit to sufferers of anxiety disorders lies within magnesium malate's ability to metabolize 300 to 350 different enzymes within the human body, including those produced and present within the brain. Supporting natural brain function is essential to your overall health, including keeping you mentally alert and calm.
Forms
Magnesium is abundant in foods known as being fiber foods, green leafy vegetables and whole grains topping the nutritional list. Although intake of magnesium through dietary means is ideal, anxiety is best treated with daily supplements of magnesium malate, according to Dr. Carolyn Dean. Supplements are available over-the-counter at many nutrition stores and pharmacies. The reason supplements may work better for anxiety and other mental disorders is because of its faster absorption rate.
Research
Although research is limited as to magnesium malate's effectiveness in treating anxiety, some studies have been conducted to determine safety. According to MedlinePlus, studies are being conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as well as the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to either prove or disprove claims that magnesium supplementation could help treat symptoms, as well as possibly provide a cure.
Considerations
Magnesium malate does occur naturally within your body; however, when taking supplements for anxiety, there are some drug interactions to consider. Magnesium malate may affect antibiotic effectiveness, as well as enhance blood pressure medications and muscle relaxants. This could cause your blood pressure to become too low, leaving you requiring emergency medical attention. MedlinePlus warns taking diuretics with magnesium malate could cause your magnesium levels to reach toxic levels. Always consult your physician before using magnesium malate to control anxiety symptoms.
