Due to their potential health advantages, magnesium and ashwagandha are two natural supplements that have grown in popularity recently. Many individuals are curious about the possibility of combining these two vitamins, which are both commonly used to enhance overall health and wellbeing. We shall examine magnesium and ashwagandha in-depth in this post, as well as their advantages and safety when combined.
Describe magnesium
A mineral called magnesium is necessary for a variety of biological processes. It is involved in about 300 enzyme processes in the body, including those that provide energy, maintain muscle and nerve function, synthesise proteins, and regulate blood sugar. Natural sources of magnesium include whole grains, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. To maintain ideal levels, many people may need to take supplements as they do not get enough magnesium in their diets.
Magnesium supplements are available in a variety of forms, such as magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate, and magnesium oxide. Each type has particular advantages and rates of absorption.
What Advantages Does Magnesium Have?
1. Encourages bone health
Magnesium is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and aids in controlling the body’s calcium levels. It is a crucial mineral for preventing osteoporosis since it aids in bone development and prevents bone loss.
2. Controls Blood Pressure
It has been demonstrated that magnesium helps control blood pressure, particularly in those who have hypertension. It helps to relax blood vessels and enhance blood circulation, leading to a potential decrease in blood pressure.
3. Reduction of Inflammation
Due to its anti-inflammatory qualities, magnesium can aid in lowering inflammatory levels in the body. People who suffer from inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may find this helpful.
4. Enhances Sleep
Magnesium can lessen insomnia and help with better sleep. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, is produced in a more controlled manner as a result.
5. Promotes Heart Health
Magnesium is crucial for cardiovascular health and can lower the chance of developing heart disease. It aids in cardiac rhythm regulation and guards against irregular heartbeats.
Describe Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also referred to as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb with a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine spanning several millennia. It is frequently used to lower stress, enhance cognitive function, and increase energy.
There are several ways to consume ashwagandha, including teas, powders, and capsules. The supplement is made from the plant’s root and contains a number of active ingredients, such as withanolides, alkaloids, and flavonoids.
What are Ashwagandha’s Health Benefits?
1. Lowers tension and stress
The efficacy of ashwagandha to lessen stress and anxiety is widely documented. It functions by lowering the body’s cortisol levels, which are a stress hormone. This may support relaxation and mood enhancement.
2. Enhances Cognitive Performance
It has been demonstrated that ashwagandha enhances cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and information processing. Additionally, it may have neuroprotective properties and aid in preventing neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
3. Increases Energy
The herb ashwagandha can help increase energy and lessen weariness. It functions by enhancing the generation of ATP, a chemical that gives cells energy.
4. Enhances immune system health
The immune system can be strengthened with ashwagandha, which also has immune-boosting qualities. Inflammation and oxidative stress, which can harm the immune system, can also be reduced with its aid.
5. Enhances Sexual Performance
It has been demonstrated that ashwagandha enhances sexual performance in both men and women. It can assist to treat erectile dysfunction in men, boost libido, and lessen sexual dysfunction in women.
Can You Take Ashwagandha And Magnesium Together?
Yes, it is safe to use Ashwagandha and magnesium together. In fact, combining the two vitamins may have a multiplicative impact and improve health even further. Magnesium and Ashwagandha are a fantastic combo for lowering stress and anxiety since they both have calming and relaxing qualities. Magnesium may also improve the body’s ability to absorb and utilise Ashwagandha’s active ingredients.
It’s crucial to remember that consuming too much magnesium can result in diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal problems. It is advised to use magnesium supplements sparingly and to speak with a doctor before beginning any new supplement regimen. Although most people tolerate ashwagandha well, some people may experience negative side effects like upset stomach, diarrhoea, and nausea. Before using Ashwagandha, it’s crucial to stick to the suggested dosage and get medical advice.
Supplements that should not be taken with Ashwagandha
Even though ashwagandha is typically safe and well-tolerated, some supplements could interact with it and have unfavourable effects. Among these supplements are:
1. Sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs:
Ashwagandha has sedative effects and may intensify the effects of sedative drugs, resulting in excessive drowsiness or dizziness.
2. Thyroid drugs:
Ashwagandha may raise thyroid hormone levels, which might be dangerous for people using thyroid drugs.
3. Immunosuppressants:
Ashwagandha might activate the immune system, which might reduce how well immunosuppressive drugs work.
4. Blood sugar-lowering drugs:
Ashwagandha may cause blood sugar levels to drop, which can be dangerous for people taking drugs to control their diabetes. Before using Ashwagandha, it’s crucial to speak with a doctor, especially if you’re on any prescription drugs or have any health conditions.
Supplements that should you not take with magnesium:
Despite the fact that magnesium is typically regarded as safe and well-tolerated, some dietary supplements and drugs could interact with it and have unfavourable consequences. These consist of:
1. Antibiotics:
Magnesium can decrease an antibiotic’s ability to be absorbed, decreasing its effectiveness.
2. Calcium supplements:
It is recommended to take these supplements individually or as a component of a multivitamin because calcium might hinder the absorption of magnesium.
3. Supplements containing iron:
Since magnesium can hinder iron absorption, it is better to take these supplements individually or in combination with a multivitamin.
4. Diuretics:
Magnesium has the ability to intensify the effects of diuretics, causing excessive fluid loss and electrolyte abnormalities. Before taking magnesium supplements, especially if you are taking any other medications, it is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider about any underlying medical issues. They can assist in determining the ideal magnesium dosage and type, as well as make sure it is secure and suitable for your particular requirements.
Make independent research
To completely comprehend the potential advantages and hazards of taking Ashwagandha and magnesium together, more research is required. Although these supplements are generally regarded as safe, they might interact with some drugs or medical conditions. Before adding magnesium and Ashwagandha to your supplement regimen, it is important to discuss this with your doctor if you are currently taking any medications or have any health conditions. They can advise you on the ideal dosage and type, as well as help establish whether these supplements are safe and suitable for you.
To support general health and well-being, it’s crucial to maintain a good food and way of life in addition to supplements. Eating a healthy, whole-foods-based diet, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and controlling your stress are all important factors in maintaining optimal health.
Read more: Can Yoga cause Diarrhoea
What cancels magnesium?
Numerous substances have the potential to negate the positive effects of magnesium, resulting in decreased absorption and perhaps diminished effectiveness. These consist of:
- Phytic acid: This substance, which is present in whole grains, legumes, and nuts, can bind to magnesium and prevent it from being absorbed.
- Calcium: Since calcium and magnesium compete with one another for absorption in the body, consuming excessive amounts of calcium supplements might decrease the absorption of magnesium.
- Alcohol: Heavy drinking can cause a reduction in magnesium absorption as well as an increase in magnesium excretion.
- Specific drugs: Some drugs, such as diuretics, might lower absorption and raise magnesium excretion.
Avoiding these things and maintaining a healthy diet and way of life are crucial if you want to get the most out of magnesium. Eating a balanced diet full of foods high in magnesium, such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, and taking magnesium supplements in moderation can help ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Two natural supplements that have significant health advantages are magnesium and ashwagandha. It is safe to take both vitamins simultaneously, and they might even work better together. Magnesium can improve the body’s ability to absorb and utilise Ashwagandha’s active ingredients.
Before beginning any new supplement regimen, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider if you’re interested in taking magnesium and Ashwagandha together. They can make tailored recommendations and assist in making sure the supplements are secure and suitable for your particular requirements.
FAQ
Yes, taking magnesium at night and ashwagandha in the morning is safe and effective. Because of its energising and mood-enhancing properties, ashwagandha is a fantastic supplement to take in the morning to help you get your day off to a good start. On the other hand, magnesium is an excellent supplement to take at night to assist promote peaceful sleep and relaxation because of its well-known calming and relaxing benefits. You can maximise each supplement’s particular effects and promote overall health and wellbeing by taking them at various times throughout the day.
Dr. Shraddha S. Chouhan is here. I’m an Indian dentist. I’m currently wrapping up my internship. I fell in love with human body health and its various aspects while working in the medical field, beginning with science. During my final year of dental school, I began practising yoga and learning about organic food, a healthy lifestyle, and the benefits it has on our human bodies. Learning more about organic food and its importance to our health has astounded me. Now I’m on a mission to learn more about healthy eating, living, and organic food.
