Does Magnesium Help You Lose Belly Fat?
Magnesium can boost overall health and may indirectly help with some factors contributing to weight gain.
Magnesium is found in fatty fish, leafy greens, whole grains — and the supplement aisle.
The mighty mineral plays many essential roles in our bodies, but can it help tighten the belt buckle?
We checked in with a doctor to find out.
While magnesium can sneakily support weight loss in a few ways, that’s not its main gig.
Here are a few ways magnesium may support weight loss, as explained by Vukasinov.
- Regulates blood sugar: Magnesium can help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which Vukasinov says can reduce cravings and stabilize energy levels, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet.
- Works as an anti-inflammatory: “Chronic inflammation is associated with obesity,” Vukasinov says. “Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to improved weight management.”
- Improves sleep: Poor sleep is linked to weight gain, so by getting you some better ZZZs, magnesium can help support a healthy weight.
Vukasinov reminds us that no specific magnesium dosage is prescribed solely for fat loss.
- 400-420 mg per day for adults assigned male at birth
- 310-320 mg per day for adults assigned female at birth
Vukasinov says that sticking to the RDA ensures you meet your body’s needs without over-supplementing.
“Excessive intake does not enhance weight loss and may lead to adverse effects,” he adds.
According to Vukasinov, it’s best to get magnesium from food since a nutrient-dense diet, including whole foods, boosts your intake of other extra essentials like fiber, which improves overall health.
