Magnesium: A Natural Remedy for Leg Cramps?
Leg cramps can strike at any time, causing sharp discomfort and disrupting our day or sleep. For many, magnesium is often touted as a natural remedy, but does it really work?
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a key role in muscle contraction and nerve function. If cramps are due to a magnesium deficiency, increasing magnesium intake may help alleviate them. This can be done through diet or supplements. Foods like almonds, spinach, and bananas are rich sources of magnesium, making them a healthy addition to your meals.
Scientific research on the effectiveness of magnesium for leg cramps is mixed. While some studies suggest that magnesium supplements can be helpful—particularly for people who are deficient—other research points to limited benefits for the general population. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider before starting supplements is important.
Whether you’re exploring natural remedies or curious about the science behind them, magnesium may be worth considering for those pesky cramps.
References
Allen, J.B., et al. (2021). "Magnesium in Muscle Health: Benefits and Limits." Nutritional Review Journal.
Zullo, R. (2019). "The Role of Minerals in Preventing Muscle Cramping." Journal of Sports Medicine.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): Magnesium - Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
Where to find a Magnesium supplement
We carry a concentrated liquid option that is nice at Townsend Draft Goods. You can take as needed for immediate relief directly from the dropper or mix with water.
Garden of Life offers a powdered version that is naturally flavored where you mix with water - link on iHerb.com
Screenshot from iHerb for Garden of Life Magnesium
Naturelo offers a supplement that includes organic vegetables - link to Amazon
Screenshot of Naturelo on Amazon
A personal story from our experience…
When I was pregnant in my 30s with my daughter, my legs started cramping at night. When I shared this information with my mid-wife, she told me that I needed to take magnesium. Did it work? YES!
AI-generated image using copilot by Raven Townsend
