The downside of endurance exercise

Endurance exercise has many benefits, including weight management, improved mental and physical health and increased vitality.^24,25 So how can something that is so good for you, possibly cause you harm? Over the long-term, exercise can deplete your body’s magnesium content and this, coupled with an insufficient intake, can lead to a magnesium deficiency.⁸

There are a few mechanisms involved in exercise-related magnesium depletion:
1) Decreased intake in the diet – people who are involved in weight class and body conscious sports such as ballet, gymnastics, wrestling or diving may not be taking in enough magnesium due to their dietary restrictions.^26,27
2) Increased usage by the body – more magnesium is used by the body to produce energy, contract muscles etc. so physically active people need more magnesium than inactive people.^28,29
3) Increased excretion – exercise can increase the loss of magnesium and other minerals through sweat, urine and the shedding of cells.^29,30

As magnesium is critical for the proper functioning of every organ in your body,³ it is vitally important that you ensure an adequate intake of magnesium, especially if you are exercising regularly.¹⁸ You can do this either through your diet or by taking a magnesium supplement.