Magnesium is an important mineral for your body.

One of the most abundant minerals in the body, magnesium, plays an important role in many bodily functions and has many health benefits.

In addition to these benefits, magnesium may be helpful as a natural treatment for anxiety. While further studies are needed, there is research to suggest that magnesium may help fight anxiety.

A 2010 review of natural treatments for anxiety found that magnesium could be a treatment for anxiety.

One reason magnesium might help reduce anxiety is that it may improve brain function. Research shows that magnesium plays an important role in regulating neurotransmitters, which send messages throughout the brain and body. This is how magnesium plays a role in neurological health.

Research has found that magnesium may help with brain functions that reduce stress and anxiety. It is believed to affect a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which helps regulate the pituitary and adrenal glands, which are responsible for your response to stress.

If you have an anxiety disorder, you might want to consider using magnesium to help reduce your symptoms.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), studies consistently show that many people aren’t getting enough magnesium from their diets. Many people have low magnesium levels.

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for adults aged 31 to 50 is between 320 and 420 mg. The exact RDA will differ depending on your age and gender. More magnesium is also needed during pregnancy, as pregnancy can affect how your body absorbs certain vitamins and minerals.

To ensure you have enough magnesium in your diet, eat foods high in magnesium.

Foods high in magnesium

  • leafy greens
  • avocado
  • dark chocolate
  • legumes
  • whole grains
  • nuts
  • seeds

If you take magnesium as a supplement, studies that showed that magnesium can have anti-anxiety effects generally used dosages of between 75 and 360 mg a day, according to the 2017 review.

It’s best to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking any supplement so you know the correct dose for you.

Magnesium is an important mineral with many benefits. While more evidence is needed to fully understand and explain how it works, magnesium seems to be an effective treatment for anxiety. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.