There is a good amount of clinical evidence that the amount of magnesium in the typical North American diet is insufficient to meet daily requirements (350–450 mg) and has become a bigger challenge over the past 20 years. The scary stat: Some numbers report as high as 80 percent of the population is deficient in this magic mineral. A huge problem for health, considering magnesium is needed in 800 biochemical reactions in the body—and also plays a very big part in fighting off stress because elevated cortisol levels are associated with a magnesium deficiency.
The good news: According to Charlene Florian, chief creative officer at Kerstin Florian International, there is a good amount of clinical evidence that shows one way to help boost magnesium levels is via beauty products.
You May Also Like: 8 Steps to the Perfect Bath
The solution: “The best way to ensure proper levels is to get tested and take a supplement, but transdermal application with magnesium lotion, oil or a mineral wellness bath, can also help,” she says. “I recommend soaking for 20 minutes a day, every day, in body-temperature water.” Adds integrative health expert Taz Bhatia, “Many people notice an improvement in their stress symptoms, from general irritability to sleeplessness, once we increase their magnesium levels. In my opinion, the easiest way to do it is through a relaxing Epsom salt bath.”
You May Also Like: What Salt Therapy Is Really Like
How it works: Bathing in pure and natural mineral salts is a tradition that cultures have practiced all over the world for thousands of years. “Look for the best-quality salts you can find,” Florian says. “Mineral baths work transdermally by penetrating skin. It is believed that some of the mineral salts and trace elements penetrate into the system. No one knows the exact pathway, but research supports an overall improvement in well-being from bathing in quality mineral water and hot springs.”
