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Sometimes the old methods are still a great way to go. Epsom salt baths may be discounted by some simply by virtue of the fact that it may have been used by your grandmother, great-grandmother and back through the generations. But an Epsom salt bath can do more than just leave your skin soft. It can be soothing to the muscles and to the stressed-out psyche.
According to Howstuffworks.com, over 50 percent of people in the United States are deficient in magnesium. Deficiency occurs in part because our diets just don't contain the amount of magnesium that they did in the past. The fact that we tend to eat far more sugar, unhealthy fats and salt can cause even greater magnesium deficiency.
The National Academy of Sciences has said that lack of magnesium increases risk for such conditions as arthritis, digestive problems, chronic fatigue, heart disease, joint pain, osteoporosis and stroke.
Too much calcium can also cause an imbalance that leads to further magnesium deficiency. Ironically, taking a calcium supplement without also adding magnesium can make you deficient in each of these minerals. The healthy ration is two parts calcium to one part magnesium.
Taking magnesium supplements orally is not the best way to increase your levels because magnesium is not absorbed well through the digestive tract. Some food, drugs and medical problems can also limit the effectiveness of magnesium supplements.
Magnesium is the second most plentiful element in your cells. It is the fourth most vital positively charged ion. It helps regulate more than 325 enzymes, as well as energy production, electrical impulses, eliminating toxins, and control of muscles.
Sulfate aids in forming joint proteins and brain tissue. It helps in strengthening the walls of the digestive tract, releasing toxins.
The compound magnesium sulfate increases digestive enzymes in the pancreas. It may detoxify the body from heavy metals. Epsom salts contain magnesium sulfate which is absorbed through the skin.
Epsom salts are inexpensive and easy to find. They can be purchased in any grocery store.
Howstuffworks.com cited the Epsom Salt Industry Council website, saying that healthy magnesium and sulfate levels can offer the following health benefits.
Heart and circulatory health is improved. Irregular heartbeats become regular, and blood pressure lowers. Hardening of the arteries is prevented. The body becomes more able to use insulin effectively, decreasing the risk for diabetes. Migraines may be decreased.
The body is better able to remove heavy metals and other toxins from cells. Inflammation is reduced which decreases muscle cramps and pain. Electrolyte regulation enhances nerve function. Magnesium helps to maintain levels of calcium in the blood, which controls the body's electrical current.
While too much stress and adrenaline may drain magnesium, increasing magnesium levels can ease the stress and its consequences. Magnesium binds the neurotransmitter serotonin which makes you feel relaxed and a sense of wellbeing.
The body uses oxygen more effectively, and absorbs nutrients better. Formation of brain tissue, mucin proteins and joint proteins are enhanced.
Some doctors advise taking a 12 - 15 minute bath in Epsom salts up to three times a week. Two cups of Epsom salts in your bath will do the job.
Howstuffworks.com cited the Epsom Salt Industry Council website, saying that healthy magnesium and sulfate levels can offer the following health benefits.
Heart and circulatory health is improved. Irregular heartbeats become regular, and blood pressure lowers. Hardening of the arteries is prevented. The body becomes more able to use insulin effectively, decreasing the risk for diabetes. Migraines may be decreased.
The body is better able to remove heavy metals and other toxins from cells. Inflammation is reduced which decreases muscle cramps and pain. Electrolyte regulation enhances nerve function. Magnesium helps to maintain levels of calcium in the blood, which controls the body's electrical current.
While too much stress and adrenaline may drain magnesium, increasing magnesium levels can ease the stress and its consequences. Magnesium binds the neurotransmitter serotonin which makes you feel relaxed and a sense of well-being.
The body uses oxygen more effectively, and absorbs nutrients better. Formation of brain tissue, mucin proteins and joint proteins are enhanced.
Some doctors advise taking a 12 - 15 minute bath in Epsom salts up to three times a week. Two cups of Epsom salts in your bath will do the job.
Pregnant women should check with their doctors before taking Epsom salt baths.
Sources:
Epsom Salt Bath Treatments
http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/treating/epsom-salt-baths.htm
Amazing Health Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths
http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/care2-health-benefits-magnesium.htm
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