Magnesium is a supplement that has left many wondering, “Why didn't I start taking this sooner?” as they witness the benefits and positive effects it brings to different aspects of their health and well-being. In fact, individuals who incorporate magnesium supplementation often experience a positive impact on their overall emotional state, leading to a greater sense of calmness and resilience to stress.
Today, we're diving into the fascinating realm of magnesium and its impact on mood, mental health, and various aspects of our well-being. Joining me is the esteemed Dr. Jaquel Patterson, a naturopathic physician I frequently collaborate with as her expertise extends across Connecticut and Arizona, offering consultations to individuals seeking holistic health support.
Resistance in traditional allopathic medicine to supplements.
Looking into how magnesium affects mood, there’s been quite a resistance in traditional allopathic medicine to supplements as they might not be aware of the research supporting magnesium's benefits. In natural and integrative medicine, there's a constant drive to learn and find what's best for patients.
Within the field of natural and integrative medicine, magnesium has emerged as a topic of interest and a potential tool for promoting better mood. The inclination to delve into functional medicine literature has unearthed a wealth of research and clinical studies that validate the positive effects of magnesium on mood. This comprehensive understanding of the available evidence empowers practitioners in this field to confidently advocate for the integration of magnesium supplementation into holistic wellness approaches.
The evolving understanding of magnesium's role in mood opens more doors for collaborative efforts between diverse medical disciplines, fostering a patient-centered approach that prioritizes comprehensive well-being over isolated symptomatic relief.
Incorporating supplements into the practice.
Magnesium is a supplement we often recommend to patients, and we've witnessed its transformative effects on sleep and overall mood. Many physicians might not be aware of the extensive research and clinical studies supporting the efficacy of supplements which is why they tend to be hesitant. However, there has been a shift among many physicians as more education, especially through functional medicine, became available. When physicians see the research behind supplements, they become more open to incorporating them into their practice.
Integrative medicine practitioners, like us, are always eager to learn and explore what best serves our patients. Although many individuals are already using complementary and alternative medicine, they might not disclose such information to their providers due to concerns about safety which is concerning considering that only 11% of parents share their use of complementary alternative medicine with pediatricians. This lack of communication can lead to pushback from healthcare providers, hindering the potential benefits for the patients.
As for the physicians and healthcare providers attending Dr. Patterson’s trainings, there's a growing curiosity and openness to integrative approaches. The changing landscape of medicine, along with the potential positive impact on patient outcomes, motivates these professionals to seek further knowledge and training in this evolving field.
The exploration of magnesium's impact on mood encompasses a holistic approach to patient care. With respect to lifestyle changes, practitioners across naturopathic medicine advocate for integrating magnesium-rich dietary sources, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in mental well-being. Complementary and alternative medicine approaches often include magnesium supplementation as part of a broader therapeutic strategy. Integrative medicine, on the other hand, acknowledges the significance of magnesium in addressing mood concerns.
In this holistic approach, therapeutic options go beyond just supplements, incorporating lifestyle changes to acknowledge the link between physical and mental health. Diet also plays a crucial role in integrative care, emphasizing the need for a balanced and nutrient-rich approach to promote emotional well-being.
Mental health conditions and their root causes.
Consumer demand and a new generation of doctors exposed to integrative options early on are contributing to the shift in medical approaches. Opportunities, such as lifestyle medicine and functional medicine paths, now exist, providing more choices than before.
About 30-40% of our patients are under 18, and I've noticed overlaps between mental health and conditions like Lyme disease, PANS, PANDAS, and other autoimmune disorders. The challenge lies in differentiating acute mental health conditions from chronic ones. For instance, patients experiencing anxiety or panic attacks overnight without a prior history demand a deeper investigation into the root causes.
The emphasis on “why” is a fundamental paradigm shift in our approach. Integrative practitioners, including naturopaths, act as detectives, delving deep into the connections between symptoms and their underlying causes. While quick fixes like supplements may provide relief, understanding the underlying reasons for symptoms is still crucial. That is when integrative medicine comes into the picture as it aims to uncover the roots of health issues and guide patients through a holistic healing process, challenging the traditional focus on symptom management.
The importance of building trust.
Building trust is a crucial aspect of integrative care. In a world where community connections are fading, feeling heard and understood is like a healing medicine. Integrative practitioners, unlike traditional healthcare, provide the time and attention that build trust and empowerment.
People dealing with mental health issues often face isolation and misunderstanding, worsened by the belief in quick-fix pills. Chronic illnesses like diabetes and thyroid conditions are increasingly linked to higher rates of depression. This growing connection emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing the interplay between physical and mental health.
Nutrient deficiencies and supplements for mental health.
Guiding individuals through their health journey is crucial for long-term well-being and positive outcomes. One significant area to consider is the impact of nutrient deficiencies and the role of supplements in promoting mental health considering that essential vitamins and minerals play key roles in various biochemical processes that affect mood, cognition, and overall mental function. For instance, deficiencies in nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, B-vitamins, and zinc have been linked to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Supplements, particularly magnesium, probiotics, fish oil, vitamin D, and zinc, can be beneficial due to prevalent nutrient deficiencies and genetic variants affecting us. Magnesium plays a vital role in various bodily functions, contributing to anxiety relief and mood stability.
While changing dietary habits can be challenging, Dr. Patterson encourages a gradual approach, focusing on small changes and checking in with the body's response. When it comes to introducing supplements to young people, it's important to consider various forms, such as powders or liquids, and be creative in finding ways to incorporate them into their routines.
Involving kids in health decisions.
It's crucial to involve kids in health decisions. In fact, kids are often willing to try new things, especially when they're tired of feeling unwell. Creating tasty and convenient options, like a powdered form of supplements, can make the process more enjoyable. Also, sampling supplements allows individuals to overcome taste hesitations, making them more willing to incorporate these changes.
Magnesium comes in various forms, with glycinate and L-threonate being favored for brain-related benefits. Other essential minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium are correlated with hyperactivity and ADHD, highlighting their importance in supporting focus and concentration in children.
Despite consuming magnesium-rich foods, deficiencies can still occur due to individual variations. Thus, consistency is key, and committing to at least 30 days of supplementation is necessary for noticeable effects. Establishing a consistent routine, even for teenagers, helps integrate supplements into their daily lives.
Dr. Patterson emphasizes the importance of creating healthy lifestyle changes early, like incorporating teas or supplements, to promote well-being before the age of 18. She also highlights the potential depletion of magnesium and B vitamins in individuals on medications, urging consideration for those under antibiotic, psychiatric, or contraceptive treatments.
For more information, you may read the following blog posts and watch the relevant YouTube videos:
● 5 Surprising Ways Magnesium Helps ADHD Anxiety OCD and Depression
You may also check out the following YouTube videos:
● https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qi9LyCvKnRI
● https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jB9SKd9CGsM
● https://youtube.com/live/gH8VqLLssRc
To learn more about Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge and science-backed mental health solutions, please visit www.drroseann.com.
Links and Resources:
➡️ Join our FREE Natural Parenting Community to receive science-backed resources for your child and family. Join here.
➡️ Get help from Dr. Roseann and her team. Apply here.
➡️ “Is it ADHD or something else?” Take the quiz.
