Combating tension with magnesium

Muscle tension can be caused by a bewildering array of factors. Persistent mental strain and stress frequently cause tension in the neck and back. Too much, or too little, physical activity can also cause muscle tension. But muscle tension isn’t just caused by stress, tension and strain; it could also be down to a lack of magnesium. What can you do to combat tension?

Tense muscles due to a lack of magnesium

Magnesium performs a variety of functions in the body. In particular, along with calcium it plays a key role in the to and fro between muscle tensing and relaxing. Magnesium regulates the body’s electrolyte balance, which also helps to keep the nervous system working. What does that do? It prevents uncontrolled muscle cramps and tension. A magnesium deficiency disrupts the electrolyte balance. And that means contracted muscles can’t relax properly and may lead to muscle tension. So maintaining an adequate supply of magnesium can be effective in combating tension.

Combating muscle tension with magnesium

If muscle tension is due to magnesium deficiency it will often be helpful to ensure you have a regular, adequate intake of the mineral. Since the body cannot produce its own magnesium, a varied, healthy diet and careful intake of foods that are rich in magnesium such as wholemeal products, pulses or nuts can be an enormous help.

Using magnesium to combat muscle tension is a good idea but remember it may take some time to top up your levels if you have a deficiency.

Taking just one daily dose of high-strength magnesium products such as Biolectra^® Magnesium 365 mg fortissimum Effervescent Tablets can help you to cover your magnesium requirement and is a good way to actively combat painful tension.

Tips on preventing tension

As well as taking magnesium, there are a few tips and tricks to combat muscle tension. These include:

• Take sufficient exercise – low activity levels, poor posture and sitting down for long periods all tend to favour painful muscle tension.
• Exercise targeting the back and neck muscle exercises, as well as mild loosening and stretching exercises, help to relax and strengthen the muscles affected and prevent tension.
• Consciously reducing mental pressure and tension: try this from time to time to clear your mind and take your mind off day-to-day problems.
• An adequate intake of magnesium and a healthy diet are important for providing your body and muscles with the nutrients they need. Foods such as pulses, wholemeal products or nuts, for example, are excellent sources of magnesium – perfect for combating tension.

In general, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can do wonders for preventing muscle tension.