Magnesium And Why It Is Essential to Your Health

Roughly 45% of the United States adult population is deficient in magnesium. Lets see if you might be one of them.

Heidi Petrusaitis

12/15/20243 min read

woman in white bathtub holding clear drinking glass
woman in white bathtub holding clear drinking glass

The Ultimate Guide to Magnesium: Why It’s Essential for Your Health

Magnesium is one of the most essential minerals your body needs, yet many people are unknowingly deficient in it. Often referred to as the “magic mineral,” magnesium plays a critical role in over 300 biochemical reactions in your body. From supporting sleep to reducing stress and easing muscle cramps, magnesium truly is a powerhouse nutrient. Let’s dive into why magnesium is so important and how you can ensure you're getting enough.

What Does Magnesium Do?

Magnesium is involved in countless bodily functions that keep you feeling your best. Here are some of its key roles:

  1. Supports Relaxation and Stress Reduction
    Magnesium helps regulate your nervous system by managing neurotransmitters, the chemicals that send signals to your brain. This is why it’s often called the “anti-stress mineral.” It promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and helps you manage stress better.

  2. Improves Sleep Quality
    Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? Magnesium is known to regulate melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep, and calm your body for a restful night. It’s a natural way to improve sleep without harsh medications.

  3. Reduces Muscle Cramps and Tension
    Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant. If you experience frequent cramps, tension, or tightness, this mineral may help soothe those aches and pains.

  4. Boosts Brain Health
    Certain forms of magnesium, like magnesium L-threonate, have been shown to support cognitive function, enhance memory, and even slow brain aging.

  5. Supports Energy Production
    Magnesium helps convert the food you eat into energy. Without it, you might feel sluggish and tired throughout the day.

Signs You Might Be Magnesium Deficient

Unfortunately, magnesium deficiency is common due to poor diet, stress, and depleted soil nutrients in modern agriculture. Here are some signs that you might need more magnesium:

  • Muscle cramps or spasms

  • Poor sleep quality

  • Fatigue or low energy

  • Anxiety or irritability

  • Headaches or migraines

  • Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to boost your magnesium intake!

How to Naturally Boost Your Magnesium Levels

The good news? It’s easy to increase your magnesium intake with the right foods and supplements. Here are some tips:

Magnesium-Rich Foods

  • Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale)

  • Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)

  • Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice)

  • Avocado

  • Dark chocolate (yes, really!)

  • Legumes (black beans, chickpeas, lentils)

Magnesium Supplements

For those who struggle to meet their magnesium needs through diet alone, magnesium supplements are a game-changer.

You get get magnesium through so many different types of supplementation:

  • Magnesium creams

  • Magnesium bath flakes

  • Magnesium sprays

  • Magnesium capsules

  • Liquid liposomal magnesium

  • Magnesium powder

Different Forms of Magnesium and Their Benefits:

  1. Magnesium Glycinate – Best for relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep. Gentle on the stomach.

  2. Magnesium Citrate – Effective for relieving constipation and supporting digestion.

  3. Magnesium Malate – Ideal for boosting energy and reducing muscle pain or fatigue.

  4. Magnesium L-Threonate – Supports brain health, cognitive function, and memory.

  5. Magnesium Taurate – Helps support heart health and regulate blood pressure.

  6. Magnesium Oxide – Commonly used for relieving indigestion and occasional constipation.

  7. Magnesium Sulfate – Known as Epsom salt, great for muscle relaxation when used in baths.

  8. Magnesium Chloride – Well-absorbed, used in topical sprays for muscle aches and skin health.

  9. Magnesium Orotate – Promotes heart health and energy production.

High Quality Magnesium Supplements

If your looking for high quality supplements I really like Fullscript as it carries over 375 high quality brands. My link will save you 20% on anything from Fullscript as well.

Here are some other companies I really love when it comes to magnesium supplements:

How to Incorporate Magnesium into Your Routine

  1. Nightly Rituals: Take a magnesium supplement 30 minutes before bed for better sleep.

  2. Magnesium Baths: Soak in Epsom salt baths to relax your muscles and unwind.

  3. Topical Magnesium: Use magnesium sprays or lotions to target sore muscles and cramps.

Note: some of the links contain affiliate links as I have partnered with the companies that have provided my family the most help and value in hopes that you will find just as much value from them as well!