Give your workout a boost with magnesium

“Magnesium supports muscle function and energy production," says H&B Nutritionist Madalena Vieira Costa.² “A balanced diet should always be your main source of essential nutrients, but if you're already having a protein shake around your workout, adding a magnesium supplement can be a simple way to help make sure your magnesium levels are where you want them.”³

“If magnesium levels are low, energy production may become less efficient and normal muscle and nerve function can be affected. That said, most benefits are seen when correcting an underlying magnesium deficiency. In people who already have adequate magnesium levels, taking extra magnesium is unlikely to significantly improve energy and muscle function.”⁶

“Sweat contains several electrolytes – mainly sodium, but also smaller amounts of potassium, magnesium and calcium. However, because sweat only contains small amounts of magnesium, most people don’t automatically need extra magnesium just because the weather is hot,” Madalena explains. “Magnesium works alongside sodium and potassium to help regulate fluid balance within cells. However, sodium is the main electrolyte involved in maintaining fluid balance and supporting hydration during heat exposure.”^9,10 In short, magnesium can play a part in supporting hydration, but it’s not likely to be effective all on its own.