Magnesium for muscle tension & tightness
Magnesium for muscle tension & tightness
Magnesium is a cofactor for more than 300 biochemical reactions throughout the body. With most magnesium being stored in bone, muscle, and soft tissue. Research shows that 70% of Australian’s are magnesium deficient and this is due to poor dietary intake as well as low soil content and higher stress levels.
Magnesium deficiency symptoms include muscle tension and cramping, nausea, anxiety, respiratory issues, dizziness, fatigue, and poor memory. Chocolate cravings can also be associated with magnesium deficiency.
Magnesium is a powerful and effective natural muscle relaxant which can be beneficial in reducing muscular tension and tightness. It also works as a muscle relaxant for the bowel and is a particularly great inclusion if you suffer from constipation. Magnesium also plays a key role in energy production, nerve impulse conduction, muscle contraction, vasomotor tone, and normal heart rhythm.
If muscle tension and tightness is an issue for you, I always recommend incorporating magnesium both orally and topically for the best results. When choosing a magnesium supplement, the form of magnesium is extremely important to minimise gut disturbances and ensure the best absorption. My favourite form is generally a Magnesium Bisglycinate, and I always recommend Practitioner Only products to ensure quality. Magnesium salt baths, sprays and creams are great for topical application, just ensuring when you have a magnesium salt bath that it includes 3-4 cups, and you soak for at least 20 minutes.
As always food is medicine and magnesium can be easily consumed throughout the diet. My favourite dietary sources of magnesium include Brazil nuts, sesame seeds, salmon, cacao, avocado, brown rice, and bananas!
Here’s my favourite Magnesium Rich Smoothie Recipe
1 medium frozen banana
1 cup fresh baby spinach
1/4 avocado
1 cup nut milk
2 tbsp nut butter
1 tsp raw cacao
1 scoop protein powder of your choice
Add all ingredients to a blender and enjoy!
Written by Nutritionist Tahlia Thomas
