Magnesium For Longevity
Over the years, I've come to realise just how crucial Magnesium is. When I first began exploring the benefits of various nutrients, I viewed Magnesium as perhaps the most important mineral. However, with time, research and the amazing results, it became clear to me that Magnesium is far more significant than I had imagined. Every year, new studies and evidence continue to highlight its central role in maintaining optimal health and supporting countless bodily functions. Every year people come into or email Ancient Purity telling us what it did and does for them.
Magnesium is often referred to as the “master mineral.” It affects everything from energy production to stress management, sleep quality, and even the process of ageing itself. The deeper I delved, the more I realised that ensuring adequate Magnesium intake isn't just beneficial—it’s essential! One of the most effective ways I've found to incorporate Magnesium into my routine is through topical applications, like our Magnesium Oil Spray. This method bypasses the digestive system, allowing for better absorption directly through the skin. For those who have experienced digestive discomfort with oral supplements or who simply want a more efficient approach, Magnesium Oil Spray is perhaps the most practical and effective option. Now, let's explore why ensuring you get enough Magnesium is so vital.
Magnesium Deficiency: A Common Issue with Significant Impact
Magnesium deficiency is surprisingly widespread, affecting more than half of the population. This essential mineral is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, playing a critical role in overall health. A lack of Magnesium is associated with a higher risk of chronic diseases, and this deficiency has a profound impact on the body’s ability to function optimally. Recent research, particularly a 2024 study, delves into how Magnesium influences the twelve hallmarks of ageing, such as genomic instability, telomere shortening, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study highlights that Magnesium deficiency accelerates these ageing processes, making it clear just how vital it is to maintain adequate levels of this mineral as we age.
Recognising Signs of Magnesium Deficiency
Magnesium deficiency often stems from chronic health conditions or malabsorption disorders. This can manifest through a range of symptoms, including muscle cramps, lethargy, dizziness, depression, and irregular heartbeats. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance one’s quality of life, especially when using approaches like Magnesium Oil Spray for effective absorption. Ensuring you’re getting enough Magnesium may improve your sleep quality, which is crucial not only for general well-being but also for managing stress and lowering cortisol levels. Poor sleep is known to accelerate ageing and increase health risks, making it even more important to prioritise this aspect of health.
Dr. Bruce Ames Findings
Magnesium may significantly influence the ageing process, even when levels are insufficient but not low enough to exhibit obvious symptoms of deficiency. Initially focused on cancer prevention, Dr. Bruce Ames authored nearly 500 research papers throughout his distinguished career, gradually shifting his interest towards the ageing process and mitochondrial health. Higher Magnesium intake has been linked to improved cardiovascular well-being, with studies indicating a 30% reduction in cardiovascular risk, particularly in cases of ischaemic heart disease. Research also suggests that Magnesium substantially affects arterial stiffness, a potential precursor to hypertension and heart disease. Magnesium plays a crucial role in preventing vascular calcification through various mechanisms. In patients with end-stage kidney disease, adequate serum Magnesium levels are correlated with increased survival rates. By acting through two distinct pathways, Magnesium supports the function of arterial smooth muscle and enhances arterial flexibility.
Magnesium’s Role in Anti-Ageing
The aforementioned Nutrients study expands upon previous research, identifying the key areas where Magnesium plays a pivotal role in the ageing process:
Genomic Instability: Magnesium is vital for maintaining DNA stability, as it binds to DNA at multiple sites, supporting chromatin structure and genetic integrity.
Telomere Shortening: Magnesium contributes to the health and length of telomeres, which protect chromosomes during cell division. Over half of the proteins involved in telomere maintenance rely on Magnesium.
Epigenetic Changes: By regulating inflammatory genes, Magnesium can help prevent harmful alterations in gene expression that occur with age.
Mitochondrial Health: As the powerhouses of cells, mitochondria require Magnesium for optimal ATP production. Disruption of Magnesium levels can lead to oxidative stress, thereby accelerating ageing.
Proteostasis: Proper protein folding and function are crucial for brain health. Low Magnesium levels are linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Insulin Regulation: Magnesium improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes. A deficiency in this mineral can disrupt glucose metabolism.
Cellular Ageing: Higher Magnesium intake is associated with enhanced cell replication and longevity, reducing oxidative stress and promoting mitochondrial health.
Stem Cell Health: Magnesium is integral for immune function, supporting stem cell regeneration and reducing inflammation.
Intercellular Communication: Magnesium modulates critical cellular pathways, including those involved in memory and cognitive function, preventing neurodegeneration.
Autophagy: This process, where cells remove damaged components, is enhanced by Magnesium, promoting neuronal survival and reducing the build-up of harmful proteins.
Gut Health: A balanced gut microbiome, supported by Magnesium, is linked to better cognitive function and overall health.
Inflammation: Low Magnesium levels can trigger an increase in inflammation, which is a significant factor in ageing and chronic disease.
Magnesium & Sleep Quality
A whole article in itself and I'm sure I must of written one. Yes! Here it is: Sleep Deeply Live Completely - A Complete Guide to Healthy Sleep. Anyway if you are often feeling fatigued? Lack of quality sleep might be the culprit, especially if your Magnesium intake is insufficient. Research shows that poor sleep raises cortisol levels, which can accelerate ageing. Magnesium helps promote restful sleep by increasing the production of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. Using Magnesium Oil Spray before bed can be particularly effective as it relaxes muscles and helps reduce nighttime restlessness. This is why I wrote the comprehensive Sleep Guide, mentioned above. Remember Sleep is essential in Longevity.
Boosting Magnesium Levels Naturally
You could eat for your Magnesium intake and choose some nutrient-rich foods like dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. However, for many, dietary intake alone may not be sufficient. This is where supplements and topical applications like our Magnesium Oil Spray can be invaluable. Using Magnesium Oil Spray directly on the skin is a simple way to bypass the digestive system, allowing for faster absorption. This method is particularly beneficial if high doses of oral magnesium cause digestive issues.
When considering Magnesium supplements, there is also Magnesium L-Threonate, this highly effective due to its ability to penetrate cell membranes and support ATP production. Often you'll hear how it bypasses the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, the classic of taking Epsom Salt baths is still good. Remember our Celtic Sea Salt is not dried out and still contains Magnesium, but this is not a therapeutic dose, however it's a great preventative supply. For optimal results, spread your Magnesium intake throughout the day, combining dietary sources with topical applications like Magnesium Oil Spray. Doing so can help balance your magnesium-to-calcium ratio, supporting overall health.
Then there is Liposomal Magnesium Glycinate. Encapsulated within tiny lipid (fat) molecules, known as liposomes, which protect the Magnesium from being degraded by stomach acids and digestive enzymes. This delivery system significantly enhances the bioavailability of Magnesium, allowing it to be more effectively absorbed into the bloodstream and ultimately delivered to the cells where it is needed most. I must stress that the Oil Spray is equally absorbed but in a different way. The Glycinate form of Magnesium is particularly beneficial due to its combination with the amino acid glycine. To maximise the benefits, it is recommended to take it in the evening, well all of them really.
Longevity & Serenity
I think Magnesium, especially in the Oil form is absolutely essential in a Longevity Program. First get well, heal, be in perfect health, which Magnesium helps you get to also. Then start a Longevity Protocol, thrive beyond good health. Magnesium is part of recovery, maintenance and thriving. This was really a short little article because I wanted to just show how Magnesium isn't just for those looking to improve heart health, sleep and joints. It is a Longevity Mineral, oh and it's known as the beauty mineral. Anyway here some other essentials I think should be in your Longevity Program.
MSM Organic Sulphur: Known for its anti-ageing benefits, primarily due to its role in collagen production. Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, which tend to decline with age. By supporting the formation of collagen and keratin, MSM helps reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote a youthful glow. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may protect against age-related tissue damage.
Fulvic Acid Minerals: A powerful antioxidant and detoxifier that aids in nutrient absorption at the cellular level. Its ability to neutralise free radicals helps slow down the ageing process and protect cells from oxidative stress, a key contributor to ageing. By promoting cellular regeneration and increasing the uptake of essential minerals, fulvic acid supports energy levels and longevity, keeping the body resilient against age-related decline.
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide): A precursor to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), a molecule critical for cellular energy production and DNA repair. As we age, NAD+ levels decline, leading to reduced cellular function and accelerated ageing. Supplementing with NMN can help restore NAD+ levels, which boosts mitochondrial function, improves metabolism, and potentially extends lifespan. It’s a promising compound for increasing cellular resilience and promoting healthy ageing.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV is rich in acetic acid, which helps stabilise blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity—both important for slowing the ageing process. ACV also supports gut health, which plays a crucial role in inflammation control and overall wellness. Its antioxidant content can protect against oxidative damage, helping maintain a youthful, healthy body from the inside out.
Vitamin D3: Essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. As we age, bone density decreases, increasing the risk of fractures. Vitamin D3 helps maintain strong bones and muscles, reducing the effects of ageing. Additionally, it plays a role in reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system, which can improve longevity and prevent age-related diseases.
Vitamin C: The King of Antioxidants, known for its anti-ageing effects on the skin. It helps stimulate collagen production, which keeps skin firm, smooth, and youthful. Its ability to neutralise free radicals also protects cells from oxidative damage, which can accelerate ageing. Regular intake of Vitamin C can reduce fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and support overall tissue health.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress—a major contributor to ageing. It has been linked to improved cardiovascular health and longevity, especially in Mediterranean populations. Olive oil helps preserve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and protect cells from damage, making it a powerful anti-ageing food.
Premium Multi-Vitamin: A high-quality multivitamin provides essential nutrients that may be lacking in the diet, supporting overall health, energy levels, and longevity. It helps fill nutritional gaps that can become more common with age, ensuring the body receives adequate antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed to maintain cellular function, repair damage, and slow the ageing process. Multivitamins can boost immune health, protect against age-related decline, and promote youthful vitality.
With those incredible tools, 30 minutes of regular exercise a day, 2-3 hours strength training a week, good sleep and peace of mind. You will be on the Long Road of Longevity. It doesn't need to be a really complex thing of courses and study and visiting oldies living in a rural village thousands of miles away. We know the basics, check out our Longevity section for more specifics and more in depth details on each of the things I've mentioned. But as I said, this simple little article on Magnesium and the other things I mentioned is enough. Don't complicate your life or health. Be well, Live Long and Prosper. Tom