Calcium and magnesium are both essential minerals that play important roles in various bodily functions. In this episode, Jen explore their difference in terms of their functions, sources and effects on the body.
Did you enjoy the podcast today? Please let me know by leaving a review on your favourite podcast platform. Every month I draw one lucky reviewer to have a free one-hour consultation with me. Also, remember to subscribe wherever you’re tuning in from so that you always catch the next episode.
SHOWNOTES
Calcium and magnesium are both essential minerals that play important roles in various bodily functions, but they differ in terms of their functions, sources, and effects on the body:
- Calcium: Calcium is primarily known for its role in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It is also involved in muscle contraction, nerve function, blood clotting, and cell signalling.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps regulate muscle and nerve function, supports the immune system, maintains heart rhythm, assists in protein synthesis, and plays a role in energy metabolism.
Food Sources:
- Calcium: Good sources of calcium include dairy products (such as milk, cheese, and yogurt), leafy greens (such as kale and spinach), fortified plant-based milks, and certain fish (such as sardines and salmon).
- Magnesium: Magnesium-rich foods include nuts and seeds (such as almonds and pumpkin seeds), legumes, whole grains, leafy greens, dark chocolate, and some fish (such as mackerel and halibut).
Absorption and Interaction:
- Calcium and magnesium can interact with each other in terms of absorption. High levels of one mineral can affect the absorption of the other. To ensure proper absorption, it’s important to maintain a balanced intake of both minerals.
- Additionally, high calcium intake, especially from supplements, can interfere with magnesium absorption, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between these minerals in the diet.
Effects on the Body:
- Calcium: Adequate calcium intake is crucial for bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. It also plays a role in nerve transmission and muscle contraction.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in calming the nervous system and can contribute to relaxation. It may also help reduce muscle cramps, support heart health, and promote better sleep.
Since magnesium works closely with calcium, it is important to have an appropriate ratio of both minerals in order for them to be effective. A good rule of thumb is a 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio. For example, if you take 1000mg of calcium, you should also take 500mg of magnesium.
HEALTHY LIFE HACKS
The Healthy Life Hacks I want to share with you today are:
- Magnesium works closely with calcium, it is important to have an appropriate ratio of both minerals in order for them to be effective. A good rule of thumb is a 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio.
Did you enjoy the podcast today? Please let me know by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Every month I draw one lucky reviewer to have a free one-hour consultation with me. Also, remember to subscribe wherever you’re tuning in from so that you always catch the next episode.
Are you looking for more great resources? Get a free copy of my Feed Your Body ebook here and be sure to explore my blog while you are there.
