Magnesium Chloride: A Mineral Powerhouse for Your Body

Mar 4, 2024

Magnesium chloride has been a staple in our family for years, helping my father recover from surgery after surgery and helping me gain much-needed sleep; there is a reason we love it: it works! We send bottles to our family because we know around 70-80% of people are magnesium deficient, including family members. This deficiency is a growing problem. But just how powerful is magnesium? Magnesium plays a vital role in over 300 bodily functions; it contributes to everything from energy production to regulating blood pressure and muscle function. It's simply essential!

So, what makes magnesium chloride so beneficial?

Magnesium: The Unsung Hero of Your Health

Imagine a mineral that plays a role in over 300 bodily functions, impacting everything from your muscles and nerves to your blood pressure and energy levels. That's the power of magnesium, a hidden hero for your body. This widespread magnesium deficiency can lead to a cascade of unwelcome symptoms, including muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, and even trouble sleeping.1, 2 Fortunately, there's a solution: magnesium chloride. This specific form of magnesium offers a potent way to address this shortfall and unlock the full potential of this essential mineral for your health.

What Exactly is Magnesium Chloride?

Magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) is a naturally occurring mineral compound composed of magnesium and chlorine atoms. It's found in seawater, brines (salty solutions), and certain mineral deposits.

Magnesium can be a Powerhouse for Sleep:
Apply magnesium to your stomach or feet before bed and let air dry. Magnesium regulates neurotransmitters like GABA, which has calming effects on the nervous system. This can help promote relaxation and prepare the body for sleep.

Muscle Relaxation: Magnesium may also help with muscle relaxation, which can help one fall asleep, especially if one experiences muscle tension at night.

Using Magnesium for sleep is important, but it's also most powerful when used consistently.

Magnesium Side Effects?

Simply an itchy or stinging feeling when applied to your skin. This is widely known as a natural sign you are magnesium-deficient. If it's too much, just rinse off, preferably after 20 minutes, to give time for the magnesium to be absorbed into your body.

Many Magnesium Benefits

Magnesium may act as a natural relaxant for muscles and help to prevent cramps, spasms, tension, and migraines (which can involve muscle tension). Studies have shown its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of conditions like restless leg syndrome.

Adequate magnesium levels may contribute to improved energy levels and exercise performance.

Several studies suggest that magnesium affects insulin sensitivity, potentially helping the body regulate blood sugar levels. Supplementation with magnesium may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Insomnia is actually one of the first symptoms that may be alleviated with magnesium therapy.

Potential for Relaxation: Some users report that magnesium chloride, particularly in topical forms like flakes or oils, can promote relaxation and ease muscle tension.

Power is in the Bioavailability

While all forms of magnesium offer health benefits, magnesium chloride shines due to its high bioavailability. This simply means your body can easily absorb it, allowing you to reap the rewards of this essential mineral. This is particularly important because some other types of magnesium, like magnesium oxide, are not as readily absorbed by the body.

Magnesium chloride comes in various forms to suit your needs. Some people enjoy soaking in baths infused with magnesium chloride flakes for a luxurious approach. Supplements and even topical magnesium chloride oils are available. You can easily spray it all over your body, wait 20 minutes, and then rinse off.

Addressing a Widespread Deficiency

The magnesium shortfall is a significant concern. Depleted soil and refined grains contribute to a lack of dietary magnesium. Additionally, certain medications and health conditions can also lead to magnesium deficiency. Symptoms can include muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, and even insomnia. By incorporating magnesium chloride oil or flakes, you can help ensure your body has this vital mineral.

Going Beyond Magnesium Chloride, Other Supplement Options

Magnesium chloride is just one of many magnesium varieties you can buy. Here's a quick breakdown of some common kinds of magnesium, along with their pros and cons.3

Magnesium Citrate: Known for its laxative effects, it's readily absorbed but may cause diarrhea in high doses.
Magnesium Glycinate: Gentler on the stomach than some other forms, it's a good choice for those with digestive sensitivities.
Magnesium Malate: Emerging research suggests it may be beneficial for fatigue and migraines, but more studies are needed.
Magnesium Taurate: Early studies indicate it might support heart health, although more research is necessary. Magnesium, in general, may support heart health.

Here are some key factors to consider:

Your unique needs: Are you aiming to address a specific deficiency, or are you looking for general health support?
Medical history and medications: Certain health conditions, such as heart issues, kidney failure, and medications, can interact with magnesium. It's always best to talk to your doctor or naturopathic doctor first.
Magnesium may be essential for pregnancy: Talk to your OBGYN to make sure you're getting enough for you and your baby.
Digestive tolerance: Some forms of magnesium, like citrate, can cause digestive upset.

Why Magnesium Chloride is in a Class by Itself

While all forms of magnesium offer health benefits, magnesium chloride stands out for several reasons:

Superior Absorption: As discussed earlier, magnesium chloride boasts high bioavailability, meaning your body can readily absorb it and reap the benefits compared to some other forms with lower absorption rates.
Versatility in Use: Magnesium chloride comes in various forms to suit your preferences. You can enjoy a relaxing soak in a magnesium chloride bath. Topical options may offer localized benefits as well.

Magnesium chloride, with its impressive absorption and diverse applications, is a powerful tool for addressing the widespread magnesium deficiency plaguing modern society.

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