Health & Fitness
Health Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths
Magnesium deficiencies in the U.S. have skyrocketed in the last fifty years due to changes in agriculture and diet. Epson salt baths may be the ideal remedy!
I remember that my grandmother took Epson salt baths. This old remedy has been forgotten by many, but it is making a comeback for many reasons.
Most Americans are deficient in magnesium. Magnesium is the second most abundant element in human cells. Magnesium helps regulate over 325 enzymes. It also is important for muscle control, producing electrical impulses, producing energy and the elimination of harmful toxins. A bath in Epsom salt, which is high in magnesium, is one of the easiest ways to get a magnesium boost.
Did you know that magnesium deficiencies contribute to heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis, joint pain, digestive problems, stress-related illnesses, chronic fatigue and a number of other ailments?
Magnesium deficiencies in the U.S. have skyrocketed in the last fifty years due to changes in agriculture and diet. The modern American diet is high in trans-fat, sugar, salt and animal protein and can actually work to speed up the depletion of magnesium from our bodies.
Another factor in decreased magnesium levels has been our focus on getting enough calcium. Calcium and magnesium should be in balance. Calcium depletes magnesium yet calcium functions best when enough magnesium is present.
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Studies indicate that taking a calcium supplement without enough magnesium can increase the shortage of both nutrients. Many Americans have five times as much calcium as magnesium in their bodies, although the proper ratio for optimum absorption of both minerals is two to one. A problem is that dietary magnesium is not that easily absorbed by many people.
Epsom salt is hydrated magnesium sulfate, Epsom salt is rich in both magnesium and sulfate. Both magnesium and sulfate can be poorly absorbed through the digestive tract, but easily absorbed through the skin. Sulfates play an important role in the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract. They stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes and are thought to help detoxify the body.
The recommended Epson salt bath regimen is soak in a bath with 2 cups of Epsom salt for at least 12 minutes, 3 times a week. If you are pregnant or have any health concerns, you should check with your doctor before using Epsom salts.
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