Oral Magnesium Vs Topical Magnesium – Which is more effective for You?
28Aug
News

Oral Magnesium Vs Topical Magnesium – Which is more effective for You?

  • By Porcupine Digital

Magnesium is an abundant and essential mineral used by our bodies. In fact, Magnesium is used in over 600 daily enzymatic bodily reactions that include1;

  • Energy Metabolism - Food being converted to energy
  • Protein Formation – Create new protein from amino acids, important for tissue repair
  • Muscle Movement – Assisting with the contraction and relaxation of muscles
  • Nervous System Regulation – Regulate neurotransmitters

 Other benefits also include1;

  • Lower Blood Pressure
  • Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
  • Improving Mood
  • Assisting Blood Sugar Levels
  • Help Prevent Migraines

 Magnesium is absorbed from an abundance of foods ranging from spinach, nuts and legumes to cacao, avocados and rice but surprisingly studies suggest that about 50% of people get less than the recommended daily intake of magnesium1.

The usual signs of deficiency include2;

  • Muscle Twitches & Cramps
  • Irritability
  • Osteoporosis 
  • Fatigue & Muscle Weakness
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Sleep Disorders

 One would think a great way to meet your daily required intake of Magnesium would be to include more Magnesium rich foods into your diet but studies suggest that it is almost impossible to achieve 100% of your daily intake from food alone. The main reason for this is the methods of agriculture (chemicals used & nutrient poor soil) and increased refining of foods (cereals and grains) have declined the composition of Magnesium between 25% to as much as 80%3. In other words, foods that were once rich in Magnesium are now extremely poor in quantity and absorption rate meaning much larger amounts of these foods is required for consumption to meet our daily needs.

 So what other options exist to increase your Magnesium intake?

 Oral Magnesium

Magnesium in tablet or liquid form has been a common supplement for years to help improve levels and absorption. However, evolving research is showing that Magnesium delivered orally can be compromised by our digestive systems and limit the amount of active Magnesium being absorbed and delivered where the body needs it most4.

 Transdermal Magnesium

This is Magnesium which is applied topically and absorbed through the skin, bypassing the digestive system.

 First it’s important to understand that there are two main varieties of Magnesium which can be used to increase levels – Magnesium Sulphate & Magnesium Chloride.

Magnesium Sulphate or Epsom Salts have been around for 100’s of years with it’s discovery originating from the English town of Epsom. Known for its unique healing properties, Epsom Salts have been used as a bath soak to alleviate aches, pains and promote faster healing. However, research has shown that Magnesium Sulphate, once absorbed by the body, is rapidly excreted through the kidneys making it difficult for the body to assimilate which explains why a Epsom Salt bath feels good initially but quickly wears off5. Magnesium Chloride however is naturally assimilated and metabolized by the body meaning it’s effects are longer lasting and effective.

Magnesium Chloride or Magnesium Salt is a naturally occurring mineral with vast reserves originating in unique parts of the world like Northern Europe’s Zechstein Magnesium basin and the Middle East’s Dead Sea. Magnesium Chloride, when applied topically or transdermally via the skin, can help to improve your recommended daily intake and limit the abovementioned ailments that are common with Magnesium deficiencies5.

Magnesium Oil Spray

Here are some more reasons why you should use IRONMAN by Bexters Magnesium Chloride spray; IRONMAN by Bexters Magnesium Chloride spray is ideal for applying to areas of the body that suffers from aches and pains. Additionally the spray can be used pre, during or post-race to help prevent or ease cramping – a common magnesium deficient symptom. For headaches or migraines, the spray can be massaged directly to the neck or temples to assist with pain relief.

  • Assist athletes with muscle tension, cramping and restless leg syndrome
  • Easy to apply to adults/children who don’t want to swallow pills
  • Naturally antibacterial means it can help with body odour and increase wound healing times
  • Quick and easy to apply on the go

The IRONMAN triathlon products by Bexters are available Exclusively at Chemist Warehouse or online at www.bexters.com.au

Head to this page to find out more about magnesium benefits

 References;

1. Healthline. 10 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Magnesium. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-magnesium-benefits Franziska Spritzler, RD, CDE June 18, 2017
2. Healthline. 7 Signs and Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-deficiency-symptoms Atli Arnarson, PhD December 15, 2017
3. LiveLoveFruit. 25 Magnesium-Rich Plant Foods and Why You’re Probably Magnesium Deficient! https://livelovefruit.com/25-magnesium-rich-plant-foods/ Carly Fraser 28 March 2015
4. Elektra Magnesium. Transdermal Magnesium Myth or Reality? https://www.elektramagnesium.com.au/transdermal-magnesium-myth-reality/
5. Magnesium Oil UK. Magnesium Chloride Vs Magnesium Sulphate. https://www.maium-chloride-vs-magnesium-sulphate/ 2013