How Do You Take Magnesium

So, there I was, scrolling through my Instagram feed, when I stumbled upon a picture of my friend, Sarah, holding up a bottle of magnesium supplements. The caption read something like, "Magnesium - my new BFF! 💕" Now, I've known Sarah for years, and she's never been one for the whole 'supplement' thing, so I was curious. What was this magical mineral that had won her heart? And more importantly, how do you take magnesium?

First things first, let's talk about why you might want to take magnesium in the first place. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in many of your body's functions, from muscle and nerve function to blood sugar control and blood pressure regulation. It's also involved in making DNA and repairing cells. Pretty important stuff, right?

Magnesium Deficiency: The Silent Epidemic

Here's the thing, though. According to some studies, around 50% of us aren't getting enough magnesium. That's right, half of us are walking around with a magnesium deficiency, and we don't even know it. This can lead to all sorts of issues, from fatigue and muscle cramps to anxiety and high blood pressure. Scary, huh?

So, how do you know if you're one of the unlucky ones? Well, magnesium deficiency often doesn't show any symptoms until it's quite advanced. But if you're experiencing any of the following, it might be worth talking to your doctor: fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, numbness, tingling, muscle cramps, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, or osteoporosis.

How to Take Magnesium: The Great Debate

Alright, so you've decided you want to up your magnesium game. Great! But here's where things get a bit tricky. There are so many ways to take magnesium, it's enough to make your head spin. Let's break it down.

Magnesium Supplements: The Easy Way Out

Supplements are probably the most common way to take magnesium. They come in all shapes and sizes - tablets, capsules, powders, even gummies. But here's the thing, supplements aren't always the best way to get your magnesium. Your body can only absorb so much at a time, and if you take too much, you might end up with some, shall we say, 'digestive discomfort'.

Plus, not all magnesium supplements are created equal. Some forms of magnesium, like magnesium oxide, aren't absorbed very well by the body. Others, like magnesium citrate or magnesium glycinate, are more bioavailable. It's a bit of a minefield, isn't it?

How Much Magnesium Is Safe To Take A Day at Therese Arnold blog

Magnesium-Rich Foods: The Tasty Way

If you're not a fan of supplements, or you just want to make sure you're getting enough magnesium, you could always up your intake through your diet. Foods high in magnesium include leafy greens, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Dark chocolate, believe it or not, is also a good source of magnesium. Now, that's my kind of medicine!

But here's the thing, even if you're eating a diet packed with magnesium-rich foods, you might still not be getting enough. Our modern farming practices have led to a decrease in the magnesium content of our soil, which means our food might not be as magnesium-packed as it once was.

Magnesium Oil: The Spa Treatment

If you're not keen on swallowing pills or eating more greens, you could always try magnesium oil. Yes, you read that right. Magnesium oil is a liquid form of magnesium that you apply directly to your skin. It's called 'oil', but don't worry, it's not actually an oil. It's more like a salty water solution.

Magnesium oil is a great way to get your magnesium fix, especially if you're not great at remembering to take supplements. It's also a good option if you're struggling with digestive issues, as it bypasses the gut completely. But be warned, magnesium oil can leave your skin feeling a bit tingly, and it can stain your clothes if you're not careful.

Epsom Salt Baths: The Relaxing Way

If you're looking for a way to relax and get your magnesium at the same time, an Epsom salt bath might be just the ticket. Epsom salts are made from the mineral compound magnesium sulfate, which is easily absorbed through the skin.

3 Simple Ways to Take Magnesium Supplements - wikiHow Health

An Epsom salt bath can help to relax your muscles, ease stress, and even improve your skin. But remember, while Epsom salts can help to increase your magnesium levels, they shouldn't be your only source. You'll still need to make sure you're getting enough magnesium through your diet or supplements.

So, How Much Magnesium Do You Need?

Alright, so you've decided how you're going to take your magnesium. But how much do you actually need? Well, that depends on a few factors, like your age, sex, and whether you're pregnant or breastfeeding. But as a general guideline, adult men need around 400-420mg per day, while adult women need around 310-320mg.

But remember, these are just guidelines. Some people might need more, some might need less. If you're not sure, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out how much magnesium you need, and the best way to get it.

Magnesium: The Unsung Hero

So, there you have it. Magnesium - the mineral you've probably never heard of, but that plays a crucial role in keeping your body ticking over. Whether you decide to take it in supplement form, through your diet, or by soaking in a relaxing bath, just make sure you're getting enough of this vital mineral.

And who knows, you might even find yourself becoming magnesium's biggest fan, just like Sarah. After all, when something is this good for you, it's worth shouting about. 💪🧪🧪