The benefits of magnesium you need to know about

What does magnesium do?

In short, a lot!

Magnesium plays a vital role in everything from muscle, nerve, heart, and immune system function to blood pressure regulation, bone building and energy production. Impressive, right?

Since the body cannot produce magnesium by itself, it’s important to eat a magnesium-rich diet (think green leafy vegetables, eggs, seeds, and nuts). You can also increase your magnesium levels via supplements or by absorbing it through the skin, e.g. dissolving magnesium flakes in your bath.

If you think you are at risk of magnesium deficiency, speak to a GP, and they can advise you on how best to go forward.

May provide anxiety relief

If you’re experiencing anxiety (feelings of worry or fear that can range from mild to severe), magnesium could be the natural relief you are looking for. Why? Well, magnesium is thought to block the neurotransmitters that stimulate the body and increase the ones responsible for calming the body. Magnesium could, therefore, help to promote a more balanced and relaxed state of being.

So if you’re looking into magnesium for anxiety, ensuring your diet contains the recommended amount of magnesium, or trialling magnesium supplements (after discussing with your GP) could help to bring a little bit of calm into every day.

May improve sleep

In the same way that magnesium could help with symptoms of anxiety, magnesium could increase your sleep quality and quantity. By increasing the chemicals in the brain that can encourage us to switch off, magnesium could help to calm the nervous system, creating the perfect environment for a peaceful and prolonged slumber.

While you can boost your magnesium levels through the usual sources, i.e. diet and supplements, you can also find magnesium for sleeping concerns within specialised body oils, creams, and bath salts designed to heighten relaxation. So why not seize the opportunity to run yourself a pre-bed bubble bath and sprinkle in some magnesium flakes for a blissful end to the day?

May curb constipation

Constipation can affect us all from time to time, and as uncomfortable as it is, there are some natural remedies (including magnesium) that can help get things moving again.

Some of the most effective types of magnesium for constipation include magnesium hydroxide (or milk of magnesia), which can be used as a laxative. They work by relaxing the bowels and drawing water into the intestines, making your stools softer and more comfortable to pass.

May relieve heartburn

Magnesium is a common ingredient in antacid medications (both tablet and liquid forms) due to its effectiveness in neutralising stomach acid. Antacids containing magnesium also help to stop the release of acid into the throat and prevent the uncomfortable sensation in the chest known as heartburn.

If you find that you need to take antacids regularly, be sure to consult your GP for further advice.