Feeling anxious is something many people struggle with. Whether it’s due to work, money, or kids, there are numerous factors that can trigger anxiety. Interestingly, one simple way to manage it is by increasing your magnesium intake.

Anxiety is quite common in the UK, affecting over one in ten people at some point in their lives. Common triggers include stress, medication, and illness. While treatments like medication and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are well-known, not many people are aware of the link between anxiety and magnesium deficiency.

A recent study has shown that taking magnesium every day can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms. This finding emerged from a trial involving adults with mild to moderate depression. They saw improvement within just two weeks of starting magnesium supplements, regardless of their age or whether they were on antidepressants.

Despite the fact that magnesium is found in everyday foods like brown rice, leafy greens, beans, avocados, almonds, and dark chocolate, a surprising 70% of people have low levels of it. This was confirmed by a study that analyzed hair samples from 8,000 participants.

Magnesium is a natural relaxant for both the body and mind. It’s essential for numerous body functions, including muscle relaxation, nervous system regulation, and reducing tiredness and mood swings. It’s also vital for detoxifying cells.

Many people, especially young women, don’t consume enough magnesium. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adults is 375 milligrams. This amount increases during pregnancy because of how the body processes nutrients.

To meet the daily magnesium requirement, it’s important to eat a balanced diet rich in magnesium-containing foods. But modern western diets, heavy on processed foods, often lack sufficient magnesium.

Over-farming and increased pollution have also reduced the magnesium content in our food by about 20% since the 1950s. Low magnesium levels can lead to symptoms like poor sleep, fatigue, moodiness, and a weakened immune system. These can all contribute to feeling more anxious.

Poor sleep, a common issue, can exacerbate anxiety. Magnesium plays a crucial role in helping the body relax and prepare for sleep by influencing a neurotransmitter called GABA, which promotes relaxation and sleep.

There’s a vicious cycle where sleep deprivation causes anxiety, and anxiety in turn disrupts sleep. Ensuring proper magnesium levels can help break this cycle. Clinical trials have shown that magnesium can improve sleep quality and duration. For example, using magnesium lotion has been found to be effective in enhancing sleep.

Magnesium can also alleviate exhaustion. Psychological causes like anxiety often lead to tiredness and irritability. Magnesium helps calm the nervous system and supports energy production in the body by forming the Mg-ATP complex, essential for various bodily functions.

A good mood and mental stability are also linked to magnesium. Low levels of magnesium can result in low serotonin, contributing to anxiety and depression. Supplementing with magnesium can help improve mood and mental health.

Chronic anxiety can weaken the immune system by disrupting the body’s normal functioning. Magnesium helps maintain a strong immune system by supporting the formation of antibodies.

Increasing your magnesium levels is easier than ever. The recommended intake is 375mg daily, but higher amounts are generally safe. While oral supplements can sometimes cause digestive issues, transdermal supplementation (absorbing magnesium through the skin) is a great alternative. This method avoids digestive problems and quickly replenishes magnesium levels.

There are various transdermal magnesium products available, including magnesium salts for baths, lotions, sprays, and gels. For instance, BetterYou offers a range of products that deliver magnesium directly through the skin, providing an effective solution for those struggling with anxiety and low magnesium levels.

By incorporating magnesium supplements into your daily routine, you can potentially reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost energy levels, and enhance your overall mood and immunity.