Re: I haven't slept in almost 4 weeks now! literally. Please help.

Insomnia, like depression, anxiety and other stress-related conditions, responds very well to magnesium supplementation, since magnesium is the first element to suffer losses when we are under stress. Magensium takes a vital part in the production of both serotonin - the 'feel good' hormone which keeps our mood balanced, and melatonin - the 'sleep' hormone. Without magnesium they simply will not be produced. A research on laboratory rats found that magnesium-deficient rats have also suffered both serotonin and melatonin deficiency. http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=18282308

Magnesium is needed by the body for the release and uptake of serotonin by the brain - the hormone which creates emotional equilibrium. If there is not enough magnesium SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) - Prozac and other antidepressants - raise serotonin levels in the body artificially. Instead of being broken down and eliminated, serotonin stays in the body longer than it would otherwise. If the body had enough magnesium this would not be necessary, since serotonin would be produced in sufficient quantities. Artificial elevation of serotonin levels in the body has numerous side-effects, as do the medications which are prescribed for depression.

Magnesium baths, while very effective, are not economical. To experience noticeable health benefits from magnesium chloride baths, one needs to use a large amount of magnesium oil or flake. Unless you stock large bags / vats of magnesium chloride, it will be a drain on the wallet. I always advise my clients to mix magnesium chloride flakes with water (1:2 or 1:3 ratio, depending on the skin sensitivity, or even lower concentration) and apply on the body using massage movements, spray bottles, compresses or body wraps. It is both economical and highly effective, since magnesium stays on the body and is absorbed gradually throughout the day (it is recommended to leave it on until the next shower/bath after each application).

It is the best way to get magnesium into the body, since it by-passes the digestive system. Much of the orally ingested magnesium is eliminated without being absorbed into the body, especially if the intestinal tract is congested or inflamed due to IBS, Crohn's disease, etc.

There is an excellent book by Dr Carolyn Dean - "The Miracle of Magnesium". It is a very well-researched and easy to understand account of the importance of magnesium in our lives.

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