Can magnesium supplements help with painful cramps and muscle spasms?
Three minerals that work synergistically to contract and relax muscles are calcium and potassium for smooth muscle contraction, and magnesium for muscle relaxation. Along with sodium, these are the key electrolytes. The kingpin of these minerals is magnesium. Too much calcium in the body without enough magnesium throws off this delicate balance, causing muscle spasms, cramps or stitches. Due to a diet of processed foods, caffeine, sugar and depleted minerals from our soils, most people do not get their RDA of magnesium and are deficient in this mineral. Additionally, when people sweat, they lose potassium and sodium. What most people do not know is that magnesium is also lost through the sweat glands. Magnesium deficiency leads to blood vessels and muscles that are less relaxed and more susceptible to spasm and tension. Replacing potassium alone doesn’t help people who are also magnesium deficient. Without enough magnesium, the body is unable to metabolize potassium and deliver it to t
