Feeling more anxious than usual can happen for various reasons like work, money worries, or family responsibilities. Interestingly, one simple way to help reduce anxiety might be to increase your intake of magnesium. While anxiety is incredibly common, affecting over one in ten people in the UK, the link between anxiety and magnesium deficiency isn’t as well-known. Studies have shown that taking magnesium supplements can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms, suggesting a connection between the two.
Research has found that many people do not consume enough magnesium, despite it being present in everyday foods like brown rice, leafy greens, almonds, and even dark chocolate. Magnesium is critical for relaxing both the body and mind and is involved in over 300 bodily reactions, including those related to sleep and mood regulation. However, 70% of people reportedly have low magnesium levels.
Inadequate magnesium can lead to poor sleep, fatigue, low mood, and a weakened immune system. Magnesium plays a vital role in calming the nervous system, helping muscles relax, and supporting energy production in the body. It also helps regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, which are crucial for mood balance.
Taking magnesium can also enhance the immune system since it aids in antibody formation. There are many ways to boost magnesium levels, such as through diet, oral supplements, or even transdermal options like lotions and sprays that can be absorbed through the skin. Transdermal methods may be especially beneficial for those who experience digestive issues with oral supplements.
Overall, magnesium is essential for mental wellbeing, helping to ease anxiety, improving the quality of sleep, and boosting overall energy and mood.