It’s not always easy to tell what’s wrong with your body. Problems don’t come with clear warning signs and you need to spend time to decipher your body’s codes.
Magnesium deficiency is probably not the first thing that that you will think of when you experience muscle cramps or poor sleep. However, it is a serious problem. A good chunk of the population is not getting the recommended daily intake of magnesium. There is a good chance that you need more of this neglected mineral too.
Why Is Magnesium So Important?
Though it is rarely talked about, Magnesium plays a huge role in helping our bodies function properly. It affects bone health, blood pressure, muscle strength, sleep and more. According to a recent study, it is associated with Type 2 Diabetes too. Magnesium is an important element of enzymatic reactions. And simply put, we can’t live without it.
Also, Calcium and Magnesium actually work together in keeping bones healthy. Consuming too much calcium without enough magnesium may actually be more harmful to the body. Magnesium is the key to the absorption of other minerals too.
Athletes may want to take note that Magnesium is also helpful in increasing energy levels and endurance. Once you reach the right levels of Magnesium in your body, you may no longer need to consume sugary energy drinks during training.
Do You Have Low Magnesium?
Ironically, magnesium is the eighth most abundant mineral on earth and the third most abundant mineral in seawater. However, deficiency is widespread because of soil mineral imbalance and food processing. Plus, most people nowadays have a poor diet, which makes it even more difficult to meet the daily recommended intake.
Chronic low intake of magnesium is identified through various symptoms such as cramps, anxiety, and irregular sleeping patterns among others.
How do you know that you are getting what you need? Here are some signs that you should watch out for:
- Do you experience chronic fatigue or migraine?
- Do you regularly drink carbonated or caffeinated drinks?
- Do you regularly consume sweets and processed foods?
- Do you have difficulties in concentrating?
- Are you experiencing muscle twitches and cramps?
- Do you experience lightheadedness and shortness of breath?
Epsom Salt and Magnesium
While improving your diet might help raise your magnesium levels, it is probably not enough.
If you are looking for a safe and all-natural way to increase your magnesium levels, you should look into Epsom salt baths. Eventually, you can add other types of magnesium supplementation, but salt baths are great if you want to take things slowly.
The benefits of Epsom salt for the mind and body have been recognized for centuries. These all-natural bath salts contain high levels of magnesium and help release muscle tension and soothe pain. You simply have to mix a cup of Epsom salt to your bath to enjoy the healing properties of Epsom salt. If you prefer, you can opt for a foot soak instead and still enjoy the same benefits. And as always, don’t forget to seek your doctor’s opinions.
