From anxiety and irritability, to leg cramps and migraines, magnesium deficiency is often the underlying culprit.
This mineral is involved in more than 300 reactions in the body, including energy production, muscle contractions, combating inflammation and bone strength – as well as blood pressure and blood sugar regulation.
While the nutrient is found in green vegetables, nuts and seeds, with small amounts also found in fruit, meat and milk products, according to research published in the International Journal of Endocrinology (2018), the majority of the population in Western countries consumes less than the recommended amount of magnesium.
Read more:
How to add magnesium to your diet naturally
Five reasons you need more magnesium
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency are many and varied, and include headaches, muscle spasms, sleep disorders, hypertension, insulin resistance and even pregnancy complications.
The great effectiveness of oral magnesium supplements has been scientifically documented many times, and recent studies are showing that transdermal magnesium absorption can also be effective.
Transdermal application – through sprays and creams that contain magnesium; as well as magnesium flakes, Epsom salt and magnesium salt baths – works by getting magnesium through the skin into the lymphatic system, from where it can enter the circulatory system.
A study by the University of Birmingham showed that 75 per cent of subjects who took a bath with magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts) each day for a week were found to have increased magnesium levels.
The researchers discovered that most people would enjoy the greatest benefit by taking a bath with 500-600g Epsom salts two or three times a week.
