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Magnesium is a crucial nutrient for athletes, but it is often overlooked. This little mineral plays a role in many physiologic processes, from energy
production to hormone balance to recovery and adaptation. But all too often, athletes are found to be deficient in magnesium. Some studies have
suggested that nearly half of the US population has sub-optimal magnesium levels. I consider this to be so important that I test nearly all of
my patients’ magnesium levels.
Athletes are at particular risk for deficiency, as magnesium is used to support many of the daily activities of active people. When you realize how
much your body relies on this mineral, you can see just how important it can be to maintain appropriate magnesium intake. Here are a few of the
ways that your body uses magnesium.
-ATP (or energy) production
-Muscle contraction and relaxation
-Balancing hormones such as thyroid and sex hormones
-Important for bone health
-Crucial for cardiac function and maintenance of normal rhythms
-Regulates blood pressure
-Aids in sleep and recovery
And the list goes on and on. Measuring your magnesium level is easy, and ensuring proper magnesium intake is easy as well. Focus on foods such as pumpkinseeds, walnuts, spinach, and avocado, and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol. You can also use transdermal (absorbed through the skin) magnesiumto replenish your stores. This can be a very effective way to supplement, as it is quickly absorbed and has very few side effects.
The Wellhouse at Blackberry Farm offers the Magnesium Renewal, “a full body massage with magnesium enriched oil then a wrap with magnesium, arnica
and sweet birch steeped hot towels”! This is an ideal recovery modality between days of cycling at the Pro Am Cycling Classic. One of the biggest
determinants in day-to-day performance is how well an athlete recovers, and this service may be one of the quickest ways to ensure you can put
forth your best effort at the Pro Am.
-Dr. Kevin Sprouse has board certifications in both Sports Medicine and Emergency Medicine. His practice, Podium Sports Medicine, is located in Knoxville,
TN, and he also works as team physician for the Cannondale Drapac Pro Cycling Team.
Head by the Wellhouse today for the Magnesium Renewal Treatment!