Magnesium for Calm, Relaxation & More

Every cell in your body contains magnesium and needs it to function.

Magnesium often serves as a cofactor — a helper molecule — and is involved in more than 600 biochemical reactions in your body happening at any given moment.

The benefits of magnesium are far-reaching, this mineral:

• Plays a critical role in brain function and mood

• Reduces blood pressure and risk of heart arrhythmia

• Prevents migraine headaches

• Reduces PMS

• Relieves constipation

• Supports bone health

• Improves sleep

• Promotes calm

Magnesium is the ultimate relaxer. Magnesium calms the nervous and digestive system, relaxes tight muscles, calms the mind and promotes better sleep.

It is estimated that up to 50% of the US population is deficient in magnesium. I frequently recommend magnesium supplements for my female patients (especially for poor sleep, chronic headache and chronic constipation), however magnesium-rich foods are also great addition to your diet - especially under periods of higher stress.

In general, think of nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains, and green leafy veggies as good sources of magnesium. Here are some top food sources of magnesium:

• Pumpkin seeds

• Chia seeds

• Almonds

• Cashews

• Spinach

• Black beans

• Edamame

• Baked potato

• Brown rice

• Yogurt

• Oatmeal

• Banana

• Avocado

• Broccoli

Dark chocolate is also a surprising source of magnesium!

I routinely check magnesium levels on my patients. When supplementing magnesium, I generally recommend taking a form of Magnesium Glycinate in the evening to support relaxation and sleep. Just remember that some forms of magnesium can cause loose bowels if you take too much! For relief of constipation I often recommend Colon Support Formula which contains magnesium citrate and has a mild laxative effect.

Questions? Send me an email!