Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily processes, including nerve function, muscle contraction, and the regulation of blood pressure. Research has suggested that magnesium may also have a role to play in helping to reduce anxiety and stress.

One way that magnesium may help to reduce anxiety and stress is by regulating the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is the system in the body that controls the body's response to stress, including the release of the stress hormone cortisol. Magnesium has been found to help regulate the HPA axis and to reduce the release of cortisol in response to stress.

Additionally, magnesium may help to reduce anxiety by modulating the function of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps to reduce neuronal excitability, and low levels of GABA have been associated with anxiety and other mood disorders. Magnesium helps to activate GABA receptors in the brain, which can help to increase GABA levels and reduce anxiety and stress.

Finally, magnesium may also help to reduce anxiety by improving sleep quality. Sleep disturbances are a common symptom of anxiety and stress, and magnesium has been found to improve sleep quality and duration, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels.

In the Bestie Puppy chew, we use magnesium citrate, a form of magnesium that is commonly used as a dietary supplement.