Let's see what all the fuss is about...
One moment we're casually popping vitamin C and D tablets, and the next, magnesium is the must-have mineral on every wellness influencer’s shelf. Instagram is awash with effervescent tablets, skin sprays, and sleek supplements, all promising miraculous mood boosts, better sleep, and even clearer skin. So why has magnesium become the sudden star of the health world?
First, a quick science refresher: magnesium isn’t new - it's always been a vital mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in our bodies, from calming anxiety to soothing sore muscles after those overly ambitious Pilates classes we signed up for in January (and swiftly abandoned in February). According to the NHS, despite magnesium’s fundamental role, nearly 50% of us may be deficient - particularly women, due to periods, stress, and dietary gaps. Suddenly, those relentless chocolate cravings and unexplained eye twitches start making sense.
But why is magnesium suddenly so popular?
TikTok’s wellness warriors haven’t missed a beat, touting magnesium as the modern-day "chill pill" we didn’t know we needed. Nutritionist Dr. Megan Rossi, known as the Gut Health Doctor, emphasises magnesium’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety and improving sleep. Even wellness guru Gwyneth Paltrow and actress Jennifer Aniston have openly sung magnesium’s praises, and let's face it: if it’s good enough for Jen, it’s probably worth investigating.
Social media buzz aside, there’s genuine scientific backing for magnesium’s reputation boost. A 2021 study published in Nutrients Journal found magnesium supplementation significantly improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety symptoms. Moreover, research in the Journal of Women's Health confirmed that magnesium can notably ease menstrual cramps and migraines - clearly appealing to women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, juggling careers, childcare, and chaotic social calendars.
Are magnesium supplements safe?
Not all magnesium supplements are created equal. "Magnesium citrate is best for digestive issues or mild constipation, whereas magnesium glycinate is ideal for anxiety or sleep troubles due to its calming properties," explains registered dietitian Laura Tilt. But before you sprint to Holland & Barrett or frantically add magnesium sprays to your Amazon basket, experts advise caution. While magnesium is beneficial, more isn’t always better. Excessive amounts could lead to unpleasant digestive issues, which - let’s be real - none of us need more of in our lives.
Do Magnesium infused products work?
Magnesium-infused skincare is rapidly becoming the new nighttime ritual everyone is swearing by, with creams and lotions promising to transform your sleep simply by rubbing them into your feet. Advocates passionately argue that applying magnesium topically not only helps you drift off faster but also supercharges your body's magnesium levels—think of it as bedtime magic for your soles. Yet, while social media is bursting with glowing testimonials (and aesthetically pleasing bedside selfies), scientific support is still catching up. Dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto brings us back to earth, gently clarifying: "Topical magnesium creams definitely offer a relaxing sensation - thanks largely to their moisturising and soothing properties- but the jury's still out on whether they're significantly boosting your magnesium levels." In short, it might not be miraculous - but it's certainly luxurious.
So yes, magnesium is having a serious moment, and perhaps rightly so. Our collective obsession isn’t mere hype—it’s our bodies crying out for balance in a relentlessly demanding world. And if this mineral can genuinely calm frazzled nerves, ease sleepless nights, and maybe even soften our eye-rolls during yet another pointless Zoom meeting, it's no wonder we're all suddenly a bit obsessed.
Magnesium Sweet Sleep Butter
£26.99
Founder Hollie developed Sweet Sleep after experiencing sleep issues with her 18 month old son and discovering the powerful benefits of magnesium. It's suspected that most of us are deficient in this vital nutrient and a topical cream is way more effective than a supplement. This beautifully soft body butter has been gently formulated to promote better sleep, and soothe other common ailments. And it really works!
Magnesium⁺ Supplement
£30.00
Magnesium contributes to normal cognitive function, supporting memory, concentration, and learning. For the body, it fuels muscle recovery and relaxations. Sounds great, right? Only your body doesn't produce enough of it. The answer: supplement with the purest form of magnesium you can, like this dietician and scientist approved formula from Heights which contains magnesium glycinate and nothing else.
Saint Jane Deep Sleep Magnesium Bath Salts
£58.00
Indulge in the perfect treatment for dry, dull skin and muscle tension with these Deep Sleep Bath Salts enriched with magnesium. According to the brand's consumer results, 100% felt more calm, 97% noticed softer skin, and 95% experienced eased muscle tension.
The Nue Co Magnesium Ease Spray, 60ml
£20.00
This innovative topical spray delivers pure, bioavailable magnesium chloride directly to the muscles, where it's readily absorbed to deliver targeted benefits. Perfect post-workout!
Real Luxury Magnesium Bath Milk 300ml
£40.00
Luxuriously blended with a trio of organic oils and vitamin E, the antioxidant-rich formula wraps the skin in a veil of nourishment to instantly hydrate and replenish the skin with moisture. Topped with notes of jasmine, lavender and sandalwood, the fragrant bath milk delivers a spa-like experience in your own home - all underpinned with magnesium for extra relief for tired achy muscles.
True Magnesium+ 30 Capsules
£17.99
A brand loved by the likes of Fearne Cotton and Davina McCall, Ancient + Brave's True Magnesium+ tablets utilise three bioavailable sources - magnesium glycinate, malate and taurate - to help you return to restoration. Plus, they're vegan.
Advanced Magnesium+ Powder, 30 Serves
£17.99
Zen out with Advanced Magnesium+, which contains three forms of Magnesium in a formula carefully designed for high absorption. If you struggle to remember taking tablets, one scoop of this delicious raspberry lemonade flavoured powder into your glass of a water will be your saviour.