• Jul 1, 2025

Why Moms Need Magnesium

  • Ali Anderson, FNTP

Feeling tired, irritable, or achy? You might be magnesium deficient. Learn why moms need magnesium for better sleep, stress relief, and healthy motherhood, plus easy food and bath solutions.

What is Magnesium and Why Does It Matter?

Magnesium is a powerhouse mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps regulate muscle and nerve function, keeps blood sugar levels steady, supports bone health, and is essential for producing energy. Without enough magnesium, you might feel sluggish, achy, or overwhelmed—sound familiar?

Common Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

You may not even realize you’re running low on magnesium. The symptoms are subtle yet impactful:

  • Chronic fatigue or exhaustion

  • Mood swings and irritability

  • Eye or muscle twitches

  • Dizziness or vertigo

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Headaches or migraines

Why Magnesium Deficiency is Common Among Moms

Modern lifestyles, especially those of busy moms, are breeding grounds for magnesium depletion. Reasons include:

  • High levels of chronic stress

  • Diets rich in processed foods and soda

  • Medications that interfere with absorption

  • Digestive issues like Crohn’s or colitis

  • Softened or low-mineral drinking water

How Stress and Sleep Deplete Magnesium

Being "on call" 24/7 can elevate your body’s adrenaline levels. This constant fight-or-flight state quickly drains magnesium stores. Without enough magnesium, you're more sensitive to stress, creating a never-ending feedback loop of emotional and physical fatigue.

The Vicious Cycle of Deficiency for Moms

Less magnesium → more stress and poor sleep → more magnesium loss. It’s a cycle that worsens over time unless consciously addressed. The key? Replenish daily with food, baths, and mindful self-care practices.


How to Replenish Magnesium Levels Naturally

Magnesium Baths & Foot Soaks for Daily Relief

Soaking in magnesium-rich water allows your skin to absorb the mineral directly, bypassing digestion. Try this easy recipe for a bath:

  • 2 cups Epsom salts

  • 1 cup baking soda

  • 2 tbsp borax

Or for a foot soak:

  • 1 cup Epsom salt

  • ½ cup baking soda

  • 1 tbsp borax

Aim for 20 minutes, ideally in the evening. It’s a calming, effective way to restore your levels and your peace of mind.

Float Therapy: Deep Restoration for Moms

Float tanks use over 1,000 pounds of Epsom salts in a sensory-free environment. One hour in a float tank can mimic the benefits of four hours of deep sleep! It's a rejuvenating, magnesium-rich escape worth trying.


Top Magnesium-Rich Foods to Add to Your Diet

Food is foundational for long-term wellness. Add these magnesium-rich options to your meals:

FoodMagnesium (mg)TipSpinach (1 cup)157Lightly steamed for absorptionPumpkin seeds (1/8 c)92Eat sprouted for best effectAlmonds (1 oz)80Soak or sproutAvocado (1 medium)58Great in smoothies or saladsYogurt (1 cup)50Choose full-fat, unsweetenedDark chocolate (1 sq)9580%+ cacao, no soy lecithin


Why Topical Magnesium Works Better for Some

If you suffer from digestive issues like IBS, Crohn’s, or leaky gut, oral magnesium may not be absorbed well. That’s why topical magnesium—through sprays, lotions, or soaks—is often more effective and immediate for those with gut sensitivity.


Breastfeeding Moms Need More Magnesium

Lactating mothers require 20% more magnesium to support both the baby’s development and their postpartum recovery. Replenishment is vital for energy, mood stability, and muscle repair during this critical phase.


Mineral Testing Options to Know Your Levels

To better understand your body's needs, consider a:

  • Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) – reveals long-term deficiencies

  • Oligoscan – instant scan of mineral and heavy metal levels

These tests can help tailor your supplement or dietary plan with precision.


Why Minerals Are Just as Important as Probiotics

Think of your health as a house. Minerals are the structure—walls, floor, and roof. Probiotics are the furniture. Without the structure, even the best furniture (gut flora) won’t last. A solid foundation of minerals ensures your body systems run optimally.


Making Time for Self-Care Through Magnesium

Magnesium therapy isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential self-care. Whether you opt for a quick foot soak, a piece of dark chocolate, or a relaxing float, you’re investing in your emotional and physical well-being.


Final Thoughts: You Deserve Wellness Too

Moms pour so much into their families. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Magnesium is one of the simplest, most effective ways to feel better fast—more energy, better sleep, less stress. And yes, even chocolate counts.


FAQs About Magnesium for Moms

1. Can I take magnesium supplements instead of using baths or creams?
Yes, but some forms (like magnesium oxide) aren’t well absorbed. Look for citrate, glycinate, or malate forms.

2. How often should I do magnesium soaks?
Ideally, daily or at least 3–4 times a week for consistent benefits.

3. Is magnesium safe while breastfeeding?
Yes! In fact, you need more of it. Just check with your doctor before you use supplements.

4. What’s the best magnesium for anxiety or sleep?
Magnesium glycinate is calming and great for sleep. Citrate helps with digestion and mild constipation.

5. Can magnesium help with headaches?
Absolutely. Magnesium can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.

6. What foods block magnesium absorption?
High-sugar diets, alcohol, and caffeine can interfere with absorption or cause depletion.


Conclusion

You’re not imagining it—if you're feeling tired, cranky, or off-balance, magnesium could be the missing link. With simple changes like foot soaks, magnesium-rich meals, and some delicious dark chocolate, you can take meaningful steps toward better health.