Here’s Why Magnesium Is Important For Weight Loss

1. Magnesium May Help With Insulin Resistance

A study in 2013 found that increasing magnesium to the recommended dietary allowance was linked with improving insulin resistance in non-diabetic participants with metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance promotes excess fat storage - particularly in the belly area - so combating insulin resistance may lead to weight loss.

But, according to Suzanne Dixon, registered and licensed dietician and epidemiologist, this study only examined magnesium from food sources, not supplementation. The result does not necessarily show cause and effect, and did not specifically assess weight loss.

2. Magnesium Boosts Energy For Workouts

Aside from keto diet, magnesium can also help boost weight loss for other dieters too.

"Taking magnesium will not help you lose weight, but if you're deficient in magnesium, it can help you to feel like you have more energy which may cause you to exercise more or at a greater intensity," registered dietitian Scott Keatley said. "Having the proper amount of magnesium is important because it helps to produce energy, regulate blood sugar, and cause necessary chemical reactions in the body."

Most people need 300 to 400 milligrams of magnesium a day, but athletes who sweat a lot may need more, around 500 to 800 milligrams.

3. Magnesium Helps You Sleep Better and Relieve Stress

Lack of sleep and increased stress can boost the hormone cortisol, which causes you to store fat, especially in your belly.

"Magnesium helps to reduce stress and improve sleep quality, [both] of which can affect your weight and overall health," Chandler Ray, RD, genetics dietitian at Pathway Genomics explained.