Magnesium – My Favorite Supplements for Sleep, Relaxation, Pain, and Constipation

What’s My Go-To Health Supplement? Magnesium.
Here’s Why– Patients often ask me what my go-to supplement is, and sometimes they’re surprised to hear me say magnesium. This versatile mineral doesn’t get the recognition it deserves for all the good it does.

Your body is unable to produce magnesium, so it’s important to include magnesium-rich foods in your diet and take supplements to meet your body’s needs. Magnesium is critical in maintaining healthy bone structure and preventing osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. Some magnesium-rich foods include:

• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and bok choy
• Whole wheat, oats, and barley
• Nuts and seeds: Cashews, almonds, Brazil nuts, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds
• Lentils, beans, and peas
• Salmon
• Bananas
• Avocado
• Dark chocolate

Magnesium is a safe supplement for most people, but if you have kidney disease, are on a sodium-restricted diet, or you’re experiencing stomach pain, talk to a medical professional before taking magnesium. If you experience weakness, dizziness, or an allergic reaction after taking magnesium, call your doctor immediately.

Magnesium is my favorite supplement for a variety of conditions:

Constipation: Magnesium relaxes your bowels and softens your stools to make it easier to pass a bowel movement.

Maintaining good health: Taking a magnesium supplement every day can reduce your risk of developing diabetes and some types of cancer. For those with heart disease, magnesium can help prevent future heart attacks. Women who have osteoporosis should take magnesium to help strengthen bones.

Reducing pain: Studies show that magnesium can relieve pain after surgery.

Better sleep: A magnesium deficiency could lead to insomnia. Taking a magnesium supplement can help your body maintain a healthy level of GABA, which supports good rest. Magnesium can also help with symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Relaxation: Low levels of magnesium can cause stress and anxiety. Magnesium can help your body regulate its stress-response system more effectively, making it easier for you to relax.



I’d be happy to tell you more about how magnesium can help you maintain good health. If you have questions, call my office to schedule a consultation.