While magnesium can be taken as a dietary supplement, its absorption may be affected by factors such as diet, treatments, and certain health conditions. Recent research found that bathing in magnesium sulfate crystals, commonly known as Epsom salt, can lead to significantly higher magnesium levels in the body.
✓ Improved cardiovascular health, helping to prevent irregular heart rhythms, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), blood clots, and high blood pressure;
✓ Better insulin sensitivity, helping the body use insulin more effectively and supporting diabetes management;
✓ Support for the removal of bodywaste and metals, promoting muscle recovery and natural detoxification;
✓ Improved oxygen circulation through reduced pain and inflammation. Calcium is one of the main causes of muscle pain and inflammation in the body, while magnesium helps maintain healthy calcium levels in the body;
✓ May help reduce stress. Magnesium supports healthy energy levels and is involved in the function of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play a role in mood regulation, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Magnesium
✓ Stress relief and improved sleep quality and concentration;
✓ Improved muscle and nerve function;
✓ Regulation of more than 325 enzymes and improved oxygen utilization;
✓ May help support cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of blood clots and arterial calcification;
✓ Improved insulin sensitivity and more effective insulin function;
✓ Reduced inflammation, helping to relieve pain and muscle cramps.
Sulfates
✓ Support for the removal of toxins;
✓ Improved nutrient absorption;
✓ Support for the formation of joint tissue, brain tissue and mucin proteins;
✓ Prevention and relief of migraine headaches.
Several factors contribute to the widespread magnesium deficiency common today. Intensive agricultural practices have depleted magnesium levels in the soil, and most fertilizers do not replenish this essential mineral. As a result, many foods no longer contain the same amount of magnesium they did a century ago.
At the same time, many people consume less nutritious diets than previous generations. Diets high in sugar, salt, and caffeine not only tend to contain less magnesium but may also increase the body's need for, and loss of, this essential mineral.
And because our calcium intake, often increased to help prevent osteoporosis, can actively interfere with magnesium absorption, magnesium can only continue to perform its vital role within our cells when sufficient amounts are present. Research suggests that temporarily reducing calcium intake from time to time may help ensure adequate magnesium levels, which can support the activation of enzymatic processes. Researchers have recently found that most Americans have four times as much calcium as magnesium in their bodies. However, this ratio is not considered optimal, as the normal absorption ratio of these two minerals is thought to be approximately 2:1.
Although magnesium can be absorbed through the digestive tract, many foods, medications, and medical conditions can interfere with the effectiveness of this method of absorption. As a result, bathing in Epsom salt is considered one of the most effective ways to meet the body's magnesium needs.
Epsom salt is also a source of sulfates, which studies suggest play an important role in the formation of brain tissue, joint tissue, and the mucin proteins that help protect the digestive tract. Research indicates that sulfates may support digestive enzyme function and assist the body’s natural processes for eliminating the residues of medications and environmental toxins. Although sulfates can be difficult to obtain through diet alone, they are believed to be readily absorbed through the skin.
During a float session, the body absorbs magnesium and sulfates through the skin. It is believed that the body takes up what it needs, while absorption naturally decreases as magnesium and sulfate levels become sufficient.