The mineral magnesium is vital to the functioning of the body. More than 300 biochemical functions of your body depend upon magnesium to function properly. From maintaining the muscle function and immune system to regulating the body’s heartbeat. Neurotransmitters depend on magnesium to maintain the strength of your immune system.
A macro-mineral such as magnesium, is needed by the body in much larger amounts than other trace minerals. So when you are deficient in magnesium you could put your body’s functioning into deep trouble. At least 80% of the United States is magnesium deficient, which may explain other major health issues in that area of the globe. For women, the recommended daily amount of magnesium is 310-320 milligrams and for men, it is recommended that they consume anywhere from 400-420 milligrams of magnesium.
Here are 5 easy ways to get your recommended amount of magnesium:
1. Take an Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salt baths have been used therapeutically for many years. Soaking and bathing in water filled with minerals has appeared to help those who are experiencing magnesium deficiency symptoms, like leg cramps. Since epsom salt is magnesium and sulfate, both which are easily absorbed by the body, an epsom salt bath with your favorite natural oils or detox products will help tremendously lower your magnesium deficiency.
2. Make Your Own Magnesium Oil
Magnesium oil is a great way to get enough of this macro mineral into your system. You make a magnesium oil, put it in a spray bottle and spray it all over your skin and your feet at bedtime and your body will absorb the magnesium quickly and easily. So how do you make a magnesium oil? You can find the full recipe here.
3. DIY Magnesium Body Butter
This is also simple to make with very common ingredients; a magnesium body butter. With magnesium flakes, shea butter, and beeswax, you can create a body butter that can be used daily to make sure you raise your magnesium levels. You will also benefit from a small amount of sun protection with this DIY cream. The recipe and some substitutions can be found here.
4. Eat Foods Rich in Magnesium
Eating the right foods can also be a way to get more magnesium into your system. There is a long list of foods that are magnesium rich from which to choose. Spinach is not the only food that will work, but it is one of them. Here is a list of other foods that are magnesium rich in case raw spinach is not appealing to you.
Kelp
Chard
Almonds
Black beans
Buckwheat
Brazil nuts
Dark chocolate
Pecans
5. Juicing Greens
Juicing greens is another way to absorb magnesium quickly and easily. It’s also better than eating raw greens for many people. Alternative medicine proponent, Dr. Mercola, suggests this method for many, because so many people have done damage to their digestive systems through unhealthy eating habits. Raw or even cooked greens, can be difficult for some to digest. However, if you can put the greens in a juicer or blender with something naturally sweet like carrots or apples, you can take in your daily magnesium dose in an appetizing and healthy way.