A little bit about magnesium
Note: we always recommend seeking advice from a medical professional before taking supplements, particularly if you have a health condition or take regular medication.
Chances are, you’re at least somewhat familiar with magnesium.
You might have seen magnesium powder on supermarket shelves, or in sleep supplements at the pharmacy. Maybe you’ve already tried it, or maybe you’re overwhelmed by choice (pills! powders! gummies!) and don’t know where to start.
So, let’s talk about it.
First of all, what is magnesium and what is it for?
Magnesium is a mineral nutrient that the human body needs to maintain healthy muscle and nerve function, regulate blood glucose and blood pressure, and to produce energy.
Magnesium can be found in foods like spinach, almonds, avocado, dark chocolate and quinoa, but supplements are increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. A magnesium boost can help to fight inflammation, relieve digestive problems and lower blood pressure.
What happens if I don’t get enough?
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency can range from muscle cramps, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, to fatigue and weakness.
Deficiencies can also negatively impact calcium and potassium levels, contributing to seizures and heart problems. Severe magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures and heart problems, and contribute to a higher risk of stroke, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and migraines.
OK, but what about magnesium for sleep?
Another potential benefit of magnesium is that it can help you get a better night’s sleep. It does this in a few ways:
- It’s relaxing. Magnesium activates your parasympathetic nervous system, helping you to wind down, both physically and mentally.
- It regulates sleep hormones. Magnesium helps to keep melatonin levels in check, helping to maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
- It can improve sleep quality. Magnesium binds to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which supports deep sleep by blocking disruptive signals (like stress or anxiety) in your nervous system.
Can kids take magnesium?
As parents, we want natural sleep remedies for kids. Kids can have magnesium rich foods from when they first start solids (avocado is a popular choice!). If your child is not getting enough magnesium, then a supplement may be recommended. If you have any concerns, you should speak to your health professional.
What’s all this got to do with Ovaltine?
Given all the good things we know about magnesium, we specifically formulated Ovaltine Sleep as a supplementary food, including essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium. We think we’ve struck the right balance between giving you the vitamins and minerals you need, and the flavour you love.
And the best news is, it fits right into your evening routine, giving your family something you can all enjoy together.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious drink for you and your family, something that tastes as good as it feels, you can find it in the tea aisle at Coles and Woolworths.
References
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/magnesium#what-does
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-and-sleep#what-is-magnesium