As an essential mineral, magnesium is involved in the structural health of cells throughout the body. It helps coordinate nerves that send messages between the brain and nervous system, and plays an important role in muscle relaxation. It also assists in energy production.

So it’s no surprise that magnesium can deal with the effects of stress, which can exhaust the body physically and emotionally, and lead to anxiety.

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Research has shown that stress can cause low levels of magnesium, according to Calm Clinic, an online resource for panic and anxiety disorders. The mineral, which is found in many foods or can be taken through supplements, continues to build up in the body and some of it is stored for later use. However, stress and anxiety can use up reserves, which can result in various disorders.

Anxiety itself can trigger exhaustion and insomnia because the body loses some of its energy from the loss of magnesium. Since magnesium levels diminish during periods of extreme stress, many people could suffer from magnesium deficiencies that leave them vulnerable to chronic anxiety.

Refueling the body with magnesium could relieve anxiety and avoid other problems associated with low levels. A French study of 264 men and women with generalized anxiety disorder found significant improvements for those who were put on a magnesium regimen, Calm Clinic reports. Another study revealed positive results from magnesium in treating depression, which is often linked to anxiety.

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Increasing the amounts of magnesium in the diet or with supplements might help treat mild to moderate anxiety disorder, according to WebMD. It doesn’t mean the mineral can cure anxiety, but it could lessen mental health issues that came with a deficiency.

People also notice a connection between their physical and emotional feelings. Magnesium is an important mineral for more than 300 chemical reactions that affect the proper working of the body. When magnesium levels are replenished, it puts the body back in working order. When people feel good physically, it helps their mental outlook as well. They feel better about themselves, so feelings of anxiety are more likely to disappear.

Magnesium can be found in whole grains, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy products, and meats. If your diet lacks the mineral, you can also take magnesium supplements. Talk to your doctor or dietitian about supplements, because too much magnesium can also cause side effects.

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