http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=9777879&dopt=Abstract

Dr John Briffa says:


“Magnesium therapy was tried in a study published recently in the Journal of Asthma [1]. In it, 55 adults with mild-moderate asthma were treated with magnesium (170 mg, twice a day) or placebo over a period of 6.5 months. Individuals had their lung function tested using peak expiratory flow (the maximum speed air can be expelled from the lungs) as well as something known as the methacholine challenge test. Metacholine causes constriction of airways. In this test, subjects breath in metacholine and the dose of this drug required to induce constriction in the airways. The higher the dose of metacholine required, the less ‘reactive’ the airways would be judged to be.


Compared to those taking placebo, those taking magnesium saw significant improvement in both their peak expiratory flow rate and metacholine challenge results”

http://www.drbriffa.com/blog/2010/01/29/magnesium-therapy-found-to-benefit-asthmatics/

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?


To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON or TO BOOK THE TRAINING please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/04/magnesium-asthma-studies/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/magnesium-baths-with-a-difference/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/magnesium-baths-with-a-difference/#comments Tue, 29 Mar 2011 23:09:18 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=509

I would like to share with you a very powerful experience which I have have had thanks to magnesium chloride baths taken over a period of time.


Before I start describing it, I should say that I take magnesium chloride baths regularly, normally using warm but not hot water, and about 300-400g of magnesium chloride flake. It helps me to relax and unwind before bedtime, and is great for replenishing magnesium levels and reducing muscle tension.


However, this time my body had been aching for some time, especially in the shoulder area and the joints, perhaps due to the physical exhaustion and mental strain I had been under for the past couple of weeks, having to complete a project which took quite a bit of my time, as well as mental and physical energy. I was was going to book myself for a massage, but decided that I would need to relax prior to it, both mentally and physically, in order to get the best results.


I became so desperately achy that I needed to use drastic measures. So I used about 1kg of magnesium chloride flake, mixing it in a bathful of very warm, almost hot water. I started with warm water, immersed myself into the bath, adding hot water gradually. I made sure that the bathroom door was left open to get cool fresh air in.


The temperature of the water was of course tolerable and not uncomfortable, but I really made sure that it was as hot as I could possibly tolerate without experiencing discomfort. As soon as the temperature went down I added more hot water.


I stayed in the bath for about 45 minutes. My skin became pink, and I felt a sense of profound relaxation of the body and mind almost instantly. I touched the previously achy parts of the body – the pain was gone. I felt so relaxed after the bath that all I wanted was to go to sleep, which I did.


The effects of my fabulous bath lasted for 2 days. Since it took me some time to get to the stage of such tension, I thought that it would require quite a few such baths to get me back to my normal relaxed state again.


I continued with my regime for 2 weeks, taking a bath every other day. The improvements in my physical and psychological condition were profound. Besides, the pleasure such baths bring is heavenly and is difficult to describe. I can only suggest trying it in order to experience it for yourself. However, do make sure that you are not ill, feverish, suffering from high blood pressure or heart troubles, not pregnant, or are suffering from tumorus or any other medical condition which may make the use of very warm water a contra-indication.


You may then wish to use cooler water – closer to body temperature. Magnesium baths are a very pleasant way to replenish magnesium levels in the body through the skin quickly, by-passing digestion. It is an integral part of Transdermal Magnesium Therapy.


Always ask your doctor for advice before embarking on any such regime if you have any medical conditions or concerns about your health.


Note: Although magnesium chloride flake is the most economical product for magnesium baths, one can of course use magnesium oil if flakes are not available. The amount of magnesium oil would have to be quite high though – about a 1 litre per bath – for best results.


==========================

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?


To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON or TO BOOK THE TRAINING please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/magnesium-baths-with-a-difference/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/quick-ways-to-replenish-magnesium-levels/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/quick-ways-to-replenish-magnesium-levels/#comments Fri, 04 Mar 2011 23:27:27 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=503



Oral supplementation is probably the first one most of us will think of when we talk about topping up our level of magnesium in the body. However, not all of us can absorb oral magnesium efficiently, especially if the digestive system is clogged up with impurities, or is not very efficient – which is true of the majority of the world population over the age of 30. Even when it is healthy, much of magnesium we take orally passes through the body unabsorbed, and if we take too much then even less of it will be absorbed, since it is a laxative.


This makes transdermal magnesium supplementation a much more suitable and attractive option for most people. Transdermally, magnesium gets into the cells – where it is most needed – much more quickly than it does when taken by mouth.


The most popular ways to supplement magnesium transdermally is a bath, a spray, or a massage. Body spray and massage are most economical ways to do it. Just spray or massage the body with magnesium oil once a day after a bath or a shower. Leave it on for 1 hour, or even overnight if you can, and you should feel the relaxing and tension relieving effects of magnesium very soon.


Transdermally, magnesium can also be administered in baths, foot baths and compresses. For a bath I suggest using magnesium flakes as the more economical way to achieve the best concentration. Use about 500g -1kg of magnesium chloride flake in a bath, and 250g – 500g in a foot bath. Such procedures are most beneficial before bed time, since deep relaxation resulting from and increase of magnesium in the body will certainly promote sleep.




FAR-INFRARED MAGNESIUM WRAP


This is an amazingly relaxing and therapeutic treatment which I have developed recently. It is aimed at those who are desperately deficient in magnesium and need quick supplementation. The treatment uses far-infrared heat to open up pores and boost circulation not only in the skin, but in deeper body structures. With the pores open and blood flow increased, magnesium stands a better chance to be absorbed quickly and in large quantities.


The treatment is preceded by a massage to stimulate circulation and soften up the tissues. The infrared heat helps open up the cell membranes, which contributes towards magnesium absorption.


Apart from being very therapeutic, the treatment is thoroughly relaxing, thanks to the effects of magnesium and the infrared heat. It promotes detoxification on the cellular level, helps to relieve aches, pains, muscle spasms, arthritis, sleep problems, fatigue, boost immunity, promote relaxation, help relieve water retention and is a really great start to a weight loss programme. People generally lose a lot of water during the treatment which has an added physical effect of feeling lighter afterwards.


One of my customers described the way she felt during the treatment as “wrapped in a soft cocoon”, and another said that it felt “like being in a mother’s womb waiting to be born”.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?


To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON or TO BOOK THE TRAINING please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/03/quick-ways-to-replenish-magnesium-levels/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/magnesium-chloride-vs-magnesium-sulphate/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/magnesium-chloride-vs-magnesium-sulphate/#comments Sun, 27 Feb 2011 14:52:00 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=501

I have been asked many times about the differences between magnesium chloride and magnesium sulphate, commonly known as Epsom Salts. There is a great article about it written by Dr Mark Sircus, a well-know and recognised researcher of magnesium and its benefits. I quote it here:

“According to Daniel Reid, author of The Tao of Detox, magnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom salts, is rapidly excreted through the kidneys and therefore difficult to assimilate. This would explain in part why the effects from Epsom salt baths do not last long and why you need more magnesium sulfate in a bath than magnesium chloride to get similar results. Magnesium chloride is easily assimilated and metabolized in the human body.[1] However, Epsom salts are used specifically by parents of children with autism because of the sulfate, which they are usually deficient in , sulfate is also crucial to the body and is wasted in the urine of autistic children.

For purposes of cellular detoxification and tissue purification, the most effective form of magnesium is magnesium chloride, which has a strong excretory effect on toxins and stagnant energies stuck in the tissues of the body, drawing them out through the pores of the skin. This is a powerful hydrotherapy that draws toxins from the tissues, replenishes the “vital fluid” of the cells and restores cellular magnesium to optimum levels. Magnesium Chloride is environmentally safe, and is used around vegetation and in agriculture. It is not irritating to the skin at lower concentrations, and is less toxic than common table salt.

Magnesium Chloride solution was not only harmless for tissues,
but it had also a great effect over leucocytic activity and
phagocytosis; so it was perfect for external wounds treatment.

Dr. Jean Durlach et al, at the Université P. et M. Curie, Paris, wrote a paper about the relative toxicities between magnesium sulfate and magnesium chloride. They write, “The reason of the toxicity of magnesium pharmacological doses of magnesium using the sulfate anion rather than the chloride anion may perhaps arise from the respective chemical structures of both the two magnesium salts. Chemically, both MgSO4 and MgCl2 are hexa-aqueous complexes. However MgCl2 crystals consist of dianions with magnesium coordinated to the six water molecules as a complex, [Mg(H2O)6]2+ and two independent chloride anions, Cl-. In MgSO4, a seventh water molecule is associated with the sulphate anion, [Mg(H2O)6]2 +[SO4. H2O]. Consequently, the more hydrated MgSO4 molecule may have chemical interactions with paracellular components, rather than with cellular components, presumably potentiating toxic manifestations while reducing therapeutic effect.”

MgSO4 is not always the appropriate salt in clinical therapeutics.
MgCl2 seems the better anion-cation association to be
used in many clinical and pharmacological indications.[2]
Dr. Jean Durlach et al

Magnesium sulfate is a chemical compound containing magnesium and sulfate, with the formula MgSO4. In its hydrated form the pH is 6.0 (5.5 to 7.0). It is often encountered as the heptahydrate, MgSO4·7H2O, commonly called Epsom salts. Anhydrous magnesium sulfate is used as a drying agent. Since the anhydrous form is hygroscopic (readily absorbs water from the air) and therefore harder to weigh accurately, the hydrate is often preferred when preparing solutions, for example in medical preparations. Epsom salts have traditionally been used as a component of bath salts.

References:

[1] http://www.hps-online.com/foodprof14.htm

[2] Magnesium Research. Volume 18, Number 3, 187-92, September 2005, original article”

http://magnesiumforlife.com/product-information/magnesium-chloride-vs-magnesium-sulfate/




WAYS TO REPLENISH MAGNESIUM QUICKLY & KEEP IT HIGH:


Oral supplementation is probably the first one most of us will think of. However, not all of us can absorb oral magnesium efficiently, especially if the digestive system is clogged up with impurities, or is not very efficient – which is true of the majority of the world population over the age of 30. Even when it is healthy, much of magnesium we take orally passes through the body unabsorbed, and if we take too much then even less of it will be absorbed, since it is a laxative.


This makes transdermal magnesium supplementation a much more suitable option for most people. Transderamlly, magnesium gets into the cells – where it is most needed – very quickly.


The most popular ways to supplement magnesium transdermally is a bath, a spray, or a massage. Body spray and massage are most economical ways to do it. Just spray or massage the body with magnesium oil once a day after a bath or a shower. Leave it on for 1 hour, or even overnight if you can, and you should feel the relaxing and tension relieving effects of magnesium very soon.


Transdermally, magnesium can also be administered in baths, foot baths and compresses. For a bath I suggest using magnesium flakes as the more economical way to achieve the best concentration. Use about 500g of magnesium chloride flake in a bath, and 250g in a foot bath. Such procedures are most beneficial before bed time, since deep relaxation resulting from and increase of magnesium in the body will certainly promote sleep.




FAR-INFRARED MAGNESIUM WRAP


This is an amazingly relaxing and therapeutic treatment which I have developed recently. It is aimed at those who are desperately deficient in magnesium and need quick supplementation. The treatment uses far-infrared heat to open up pores and boost circulation not only in the skin, but in deeper body structures. With the pores open and blood flow increased, magnesium stands a better chance to be absorbed quickly and in large quantities.


The treatment is preceded by a massage to stimulate circulation and soften up the tissues. The infrared heat helps open up the cell membranes, which contributes towards magnesium absorption.


Apart from being very therapeutic, the treatment is thoroughly relaxing, thanks to the effects of magnesium and the infrared heat. It promotes detoxification on the cellular level, helps to relieve aches, pains, muscle spasms, arthritis, sleep problems, fatigue, boost immunity, promote relaxation, help relieve water retention and is a really great start to a weight loss programme. People generally lose a lot of water during the treatment which has an added physical effect of feeling lighter afterwards.


One of my customers described the way she felt during the treatment as “wrapped in a soft cocoon”, and another said that it felt “like being in a mother’s womb waiting to be born”.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?


To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON or TO BOOK THE TRAINING please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/magnesium-chloride-vs-magnesium-sulphate/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/stress-fertility-magnesium/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/stress-fertility-magnesium/#comments Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:32:52 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=499 Taking it easy may be the offhand advice doctors give to women who cannot conceive, but new scientific evidence confirms that stress does indeed play a role in conception.

Researchers at Oxford University and the US National Institutes of Health measured stress in women trying to get pregnant and found that those who were most stressed were least likely to conceive.

Stress joins other well known pregnancy risk factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and obesity.

The study measured two stress hormones in healthy women between the ages of 18 and 40 who were trying to conceive. It found that women with high levels of adrenalin had a 12 per cent lower chance of conceiving when fertile as compared to those who were less stressed.

“Irrespective of the day or frequency of sexual intercourse during the fertile window, women with higher concentrations of alpha-amylase were less likely to conceive than women with lower concentrations,” the study said, referring to the enzyme that is an indicator of adrenalin levels.

However, women who were found to have a higher level of cortisol, which is a measure of chronic stress, were no less likely to conceive than women with lower levels of the stress hormone.

Dr Cecilia Pyper, of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit at the University of Oxford, said: “The findings support the idea that couples should aim to stay as relaxed as they can about trying for a baby.

“In some people’s cases, it might be relevant to look at relaxation techniques, counselling and even approaches like yoga and meditation.”

The findings are published in the journal Fertility and Sterility.
http://uk.health.lifestyle.yahoo.net/stress-and-fertility.htm




———————————————————-

Of course, yoga and relaxation, as well as other ways to slow down and relax the body and mind are immensely beneficial, but when I read this article, I thought to myself that without magnesium supplementation relaxation techniques will only have a limited effect.

Magnesium is possibly the most powerful natural relaxant which gets depleted when we are under stress. It takes part in numerous body processes – over 300 chemical reactions. It is essential in the production of the hormones related to fertility and normal sexual function.


Extreme or long-term chronic stress can lead to disturbances in the menstrual cycle, failing to ovulate, and infertility. The reason is that stress disturbs the production of the fertility hormones. Stress affects both male and female reproductive function, so it is important to address the problem of infertility from both sides.


Magnesium takes part in carbohydrate and fat metabolism, and is also a vital component of ATP – the energy producing molecule. Without magnesium energy cannot be produced. Without energy normal sexual function becomes impossible.


From this we can conclude that in order to relax physically and mentally, replenish our energy reserves, keep our fertility at an optimum level and function at our best sexually, among other measures, we need to keep our levels of magnesium at an optimum level.


WAYS TO REPLENISH MAGNESIUM QUICKLY & KEEP IT HIGH:


Oral supplementation is probably the first one most of us will think of. However, not all of us can absorb oral magnesium efficiently, especially if the digestive system is clogged up with impurities, or is not very efficient – which is true of the majority of the world population over the age of 30. Even when it is healthy, much of magnesium we take orally passes through the body unabsorbed, and if we take too much then even less of it will be absorbed, since it is a laxative.


This makes transdermal magnesium supplementation a much more suitable option for most people. Transderamlly, magnesium gets into the cells – where it is most needed – very quickly.


The most popular ways to supplement magnesium transdermally is a bath, a spray, or a massage. Body spray and massage are most economical ways to do it. Just spray or massage the body with magnesium oil once a day after a bath or a shower. Leave it on for 1 hour, or even overnight if you can, and you should feel the relaxing and tension relieving effects of magnesium very soon.


Transdermally, magnesium can also be administered in baths, foot baths and compresses. For a bath I suggest using magnesium flakes as the more economical way to achieve the best concentration. Use about 500g of magnesium chloride flake in a bath, and 250g in a foot bath. Such procedures are most beneficial before bed time, since deep relaxation resulting from and increase of magnesium in the body will certainly promote sleep.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?


To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/stress-fertility-magnesium/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/low-carbohydrate-diets-linked-to-heart-disease/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/low-carbohydrate-diets-linked-to-heart-disease/#comments Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:53:31 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=498 Atkins diet potentially unhealthy, study finds

The Atkins diet, which calls for lots of meat and little bread, may not only be dull on the palate, but also pose a serious risk to your health.

A new study conducted on mice has found that a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates can lead to a significant build-up of plaque in the heart’s arteries, which can ultimately lead to a heart attack and stroke. This occurred despite the fact that mice on a low carbohydrate diet had gained comparatively less weight than mice on a regular ‘balanced’ diet.

The low carbohydrate diet was found to undermine the body’s ability to recover from a heart attack, by preventing the formation of new blood vessels in tissues deprived of blood flow.

The study also found that the standard indicators of heart disease, including cholesterol, did not change in mice that were fed a diet low in carbohydrates, despite evidence pointing to an increase in plaque in the arteries.

“It’s very difficult to know in clinical studies how diets affect vascular health,” said senior author Dr Anthony Rosenzweig, Director of Cardiovascular Research in Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

Doctors have until now relied on indicators like cholesterol, which support the positive benefits of a low carbohydrate diet high in protein, because dieters tend to lose weight. However, this study suggests that in mice, this kind of diet has a negative effect on health that is not reflected in indicators like cholesterol.

“Understanding the mechanisms responsible for these effects, as well as the potential restorative capacity that may counteract vascular disease, could ultimately help guide doctors in advising their patients,” Dr Rosenzweig said.

“For now, it appears that a moderate and balanced diet, coupled with regular exercise, is probably best for most people,” Dr Rosenzweig said.

The study was published in the online version of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.




http://uk.health.lifestyle.yahoo.net/Low-carb-diets-linked-to-artheriosclerosis.htm

HOW CAN MAGNESIUM HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE?

Magnesium supplementation is vital for a healthy heart. Magnesium relaxes body tissues, including the heart muscle, as well as blood vessels, increasing their diameter and elasticity. This facilitates the flow of blood, nourishment of the tissues and removal of toxic substances and carbon dioxide, promoting overall health of the circulatory system and the body in general.

Besides, magnesium has an ability to bind with calcium in cholesterol plaques on the walls of the blood vessels, thus “dissolving” them.

The best way to supplement magnesium is transdermally. It is quick, and positive results can be felt after even one procedure.

TRANSDERMAL MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTATION




This involves massaging or spraying magnesium oil on the body regularly. Such applications help to replenish magnesium levels by-passing digestion which is not always a reliable medium for magnesium supplementation, due to a not always efficient digestive system, as well as magnesium being a laxative. If an excessive amount is taken this can cause dairrhoea and more magnesium loss than gain. For this reason the skin has proved the best and safest self-regulatory medium for magnesium absorption – it won’t take more magnesium than is essential for the body.

Transdermally, magnesium can also be administered in baths, foot baths and compresses. For a bath I suggest using magnesium flakes as the more economical way to achieve the best concentration. Use about 500g of magnesium chloride flake in a bath, and 250g in a foot bath. Such procedures are most beneficial before bed time, since deep relaxation resulting from and increase of magnesium in the body will certainly promote sleep.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?

To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/02/low-carbohydrate-diets-linked-to-heart-disease/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/01/weight-loss-magnesium/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2011/01/weight-loss-magnesium/#comments Sun, 16 Jan 2011 21:17:40 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=493 Magnesium plays a crucial role in the production and storage of energy, by activating ATP (adenosine triphosphate) – the molecule which stores energy in the body.

This is what Dr Carolyn Dean, an authority on the subject of magnesium for health, says:

“Magnesium and B-complex vitamins are excellent examples of energy nutrients, because they activate enzymes that control digestion, absorption, and the utilisation of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Enzymes cannot be produced and nutrients cannot be utilised, which means that energy cannot be manufactured and stored in the body without magnesium.

Magnesium deficiency is closely associated with obesity and related conditions. Type 2 diabetes is one such condition which is on the rise both in the developed and developing world. It has been established that type 2 diabetes responds very well to magnesium supplementation.

Magnesium is needed for production and uitilisation of insulin by the cells. “Low magnesium, widely recognised as a marker for diabetes, occurs in up to 40% of diabetic patients. Lack of magnesium increases the risk of cardivascular disease, eye symptoms, and nerve damage in diabetics, whereas supplementation can prevent them. Most importantly for diabetics, magnesium is a necessary cofactor in the production of energy from sugar stores in the muscles and liver.” (The Miracle of Magnesium, Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D.).

Magnesium deficiency also creates cellular resistance to insulin, since insulin opens the cells to glucose only in the presence of sufficient magnesium, so the cell does not receive glucose, and cannot produce energy. The glucose in this case accumulates in the blood causing irrevocable damage to the body organs, blood vessels, nerves and other systems.

Since obesity is often interlinked with diabetes and pre-diabetic conditions, it is very important to ensure sufficient magnesium intake to address obesity and for management and prevention of diabetes.

Of course, magnesium alone will not solve the problem of obesity. A lot of factors, such as correct nutrition, exercise, psychological problems need to be addressed. However, if magnesium deficiency is not addressed all these measures may produce only a limited and short-lived result.

As well as eating traditionally magnesium-rich foods, magnesium needs to be supplemented both orally and transdermally in order to produce a visible impact. Spraying or rubbing magnesium chloride solution all over the body on a daily basis, taking magnesium baths or even foot baths can replenish magnesium levels quickly, with powerful results which can be evident even within a number of days.

One of the most powerful ways to administer magnesium is by using a far-infrared sauna and magnesium oil (Magnesium Wrap). It ensures that magnesium is absorbed by the body in the shortest possible time. It also promotes detoxification via profuse sweating, increase in the blood circulation and metabolism. The procedure was developed by G St George. Read more about Magnesium Wraps here.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?

To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON please email info@medicina-uk.com.

This undoubtedly has a profound psychological effect on us. While a large majority people cope reasonably well with it, there is a fair percentage of those who suffer from what is called ‘winter blues’ or in medical terms – ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’ (SAD).

Symptoms of SAD may include of difficulty waking up in the morning, tendency to oversleep as well as to overeat, craving for carbohydrates, which leads to weight gain. Other symptoms may include a lack of energy, getting easily exhausted, headaches, difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from social activities, friends, family. All of this leads to the depression, pessimistic thoughts, feelings of hopelessness and lack of joy. Quite familiar picture for many, and this is why so many people dread winter months.

Common treatments include antidepressants, cognitive behaviour therapy, light therapy, melatonin supplementation, etc.

However, many people are completely unaware of how big a role magnesium plays in the management of SAD/ depression. Not only does it help to boost our energy levels, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and boost circulation and metabolism, it is also a main component in the production of naturally occurring hormones – serotonin and melatonin – which play a vital role in the management of SAD, since deficiency in both lead to sleep disturbances and depression.

Magnesium plays a crucial role in the release and uptake of serotonin by the brain cells. When there is sufficient magnesium in the body we produce enough serotonin and are in balance. When magnesium levels are depleted, which is especially the case in winter months, since so much of it is needed for various body processes, serotonin levels fall, and we all experience the effect of it to a certain degree.

Traditional medical treatment with antidepressants (Prozac, Seroxat, etc) is aimed at boosting the levels of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which elevates the level of serotonin artificially. This means that instead of going through a natural process of elimination, serotonin stays in the brain for longer, and this is what produces the antidepressant effect. However, once the treatment stops the body goes back to the original serotonin deficiency mode, and the cycle starts again.

Most antidepressants have side-effects, such as weight gain, reduced sex drive, anxiety, headaches, nausea, digestive problems. Manufacturers make people aware of these of course. Other people live in a one-dimensional mode emotionally – experiencing neither emotional highs nor lows.

While some people may have an absolute need for them, others can manage their symptoms naturally – by taking oral magnesium , spraying magnesium on the body, taking magnesium baths, as well as supplementing with vitamin B-complex, calcium, selenium zinc. Other natural remedies which have proved to work are St John’s Wort and 5-HTP. Both are available at most pharmacies.

For sleep disturbances warm 30-40 minute magnesium baths before bed time are difficult to beat. Use 500g of magnesium flake per a bathful of warm water. Such baths can be taken every night, or every other night. If you experience skin dryness – use a moisturiser after a magnesium bath.

A quick way to replenish magnesium levels, boost metabolism, reduce fatigue, water retention, bood circulation, relax and regain the feel-good factor is by having a magnesium wrap. Read more about Magnesium Wraps.

Disclaimer: All the information in this post and on this website is for information only and should not be used as advice of a medical or any other nature. Please always consult your doctor if you are unwell, are on medication or suffering from any medical conditions.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?

To book a MAGNESIUM WRAP IN LONDON please email info@medicina-uk.com.

]]> http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2010/11/winter-blues-how-magnesium-can-help/feed/ 0 http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2010/07/magnesium-deficiency-in-sports-people/ http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/2010/07/magnesium-deficiency-in-sports-people/#comments Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:39:35 +0000 galina http://www.magnesiumoil.org.uk/?p=385 Galina St George, www.naturalrussia.com

Magnesium plays a vital role in our lives. It is an irreplaceable component in the production of energy from ATP – the molecule which provides energy for all body processes and movements. If magnesium is depleted there is not enough of it for energy production which means that metabolic processes do not get sufficient energy, so general metabolism slows down resulting in energy slumps. Even though magnesium is the most powerful relaxant, without it the energy production is impossible. An increase in magnesium levels in the body results in an increase in general energy and performance.

Another important function of magnesium is connected with its interaction with calcium in the body. Calcium ensures muscle contraction, and excessive amount of calcium leads to muscle spasms, cramps, muscle tension, tightness in the joints. If calcium ensures contraction and strength of the muscle then the role of magnesium is to relax all body tissues, including muscles, nerves, the brain, heart, blood vessels, etc. Needless to say that insufficient magnesium results in all-round rigidity and stress. If there is too much calcium circulating in the body it binds with fat in the blood with the potential to form atheromas leading to narrowing of blood vessels, increase in the blood pressure and a danger of them breaking away and blocking the arteries. Lack of sufficient magnesium reduces elasticity of the blood vessels resulting in arteriosclerosis, which is also a contributing factor towards high blood pressure.

Athletes are especially prone to magnesium losses and resulting deficiency which can lead to a reduced performance, muscle rigidity, tetany, cramps, decreased endurance, general weakness, as well as an array of cardio-vascular problems such as an increase in blood pressure, arrhythmia and rigidity of the blood vessels.

While short high intensity exercise leads to an increase of magnesium levels (hypermagnesemia), due to a shift of magnesium from the cells into plasma as a result of acidosis and a general decrease of plasma levels, prolonged exercise leads to depletion of plasma magnesium (hypomagnesemia).

A few reasons for magnesium losses during prolonged sports activities have been suggested.

1. Lipolysis (fat metabolism). Fatty acids are mobilised for energy production during exercise which leads to magnesium deficiency.

2. General physical and psychological stress on all body systems during prolonged exercise.

3. Loss of magnesium through sweating – this normally happens in humid hot conditions.

4. Loss of magnesium in urine during intensive short-term exercise activities.

Magnesium losses are especially substantial during periods of training for sporting events.

“Several studies indicate that there is a sustained fall in plasma Mg concentration after strenuous exercise and that hypomagnesaemia either persists or worsens during a season of training 21,46,47,48, a sound reason for looking more carefully at the Mg intake of athletes. A recent longitudinal study of a group of medium-distance runners carried out over a training season also demonstrated plasma Mg reductions during the competition period, although there were no variations in erythrocyte Mg. Since both their energy intake and their work load remained more or less constant during the study, a relationship can be established between plasma Mg changes and the stress of the competition period 4″ (Y. Rayssiguier1, C. Y. Guezennec2, and J. Durlach3, New experimental and clinical data on the relationship between magnesium and sport, http://www.mgwater.com/dur18.shtml)

Magnesium deficiency may play a role in sudden death syndrome in sports people resulting from a cardiac arrest (heart attack). As we have established earlier, a fall in magnesium levels in sports people can lead to an increase in cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and rigidity of blood vessels which in turn results in an increase in blood pressure and may in some cases explain sudden death in atheltes.

All this brings us to a conclusion that it is extremely important to replenish magnesium levels in athletes, especially during prolonged sporting activities and competitions, to prevent a slump in energy levels, general fatigue, reduction in performance, muscle tension, aches and pains and speed up recovery.

How can magnesium levels be replenished?

1. Diet – magnesium-rich foods include whole grains, soya products, nuts and seeds, legumes, fruit and vegetables, milk, eggs, sea foods, etc.

2. Oral supplementation. Dr M. Seelig who is an internationally recognised expert in magnesium studies, recommends supplementation of 6-10mg per 1kg of body weight per day. There are a lot of good sources of oral magnesium, such as magnesium orotate, magnesium citrate, etc.

3. Intravenously – injections. A very effective method, but is used in clinics in cases of severe magnesium deficiencies where it is important to raise levels of magnesium quickly.

4. Transdermal supplementation - a quick, efficient and very practical way to replenish magnesium levels which can be used by everyone. A problem with oral supplementation is that large doses of magnesium can cause diarrhoea which leads to magnesium excretion from the body. Also, not everyone’s digestive system is efficient and can absorb sufficient doses of magnesium. Transdermal methods of supplementation (spraying or rubbing magnesium on the body, magnesium massage, bath, foot bath) on the other hand ensure that the digestive system is bypassed and magnesium gets into the body via the skin thanks to its very important function to absorb.

Transdermal supplementation can be achieved by applying magnesium oil on the body by hand (e.g. a massage), or using it in a bath or foot bath. While magnesium oil is great when used in a spray or applied by hand, for a bath or foot baths magnesium chloride flake is the most economical product. Zechstein magnesium flake is one of the best magnesium products around.

Magnesium oil applications:

• Apply by hand all over the body
• Magnesium oil is a great massage medium, and magnesium massage is one of the most luxurious and relaxing treatments.
• Spray on the body after a bath or a shower, before going to bed. You will need a spray bottle for this.
• Mix with hot water, use in a compress on a tight muscle or painful joint. Do not use heat on areas of acute inflammation and immediate injuries.

Magnesium flake applications

• Use 2 handfuls in a very warm foot bath.
• Use at least 300-500g of magnesium flake per bath. The more magnesium in the bath the more effective its absorption will be.

Note: Some people suffer from skin sensitivity, and magnesium baths (as well as other applications) can result in the skin becoming dry and itchy. In such cases adjust the strength of magnesium solution applied on the skin directly, and use a natural moisturiser to soften and hydrate the skin after a bath.

WHERE CAN I BUY MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?

To book a MAGNESIUM MASSAGE IN LONDON please email info@medicina-uk.com.

Back in 1915, a French surgeon, Prof. Pierre Delbet, M.D., was looking for a solution to cleanse wounds, because he had found out that the traditional antiseptic solutions actually mortified tissues and facilitated the infection instead of preventing it.

He tested several mineral solutions and discovered that a Magnesium Chloride solution was not only harmless for tissues, but it had also a great effect over leucocytic activity and phagocytosis; so it was perfect for external wounds treatment.

Dr. Delbet performed a lot of in vitro and in vivo experiments with this solution and he became aware that it was good not only for external applications, but it was also a powerful immuno-stimulant if taken by injections or even by mouth. He called this effect “cytophilaxis”. In some in vivo experiments it was able to increase phagocytosis rate up to 300%. Dr. Delbet serendipitously discovered that this oral solution had also a tonic effect on many people and so became aware that the Magnesium Chloride had an effect on the whole organism.

In a brief time, he received communications of very good therapeutics effects of this “therapy” from people that were taking Magnesium Chloride for its tonic properties and who were suffering from various ailments.

Prof. Delbet began to closely study the subject and verified that the Magnesium Chloride solution was a very good therapy for a long list of diseases.

He obtained very good results in: colitis, angiocholitis and cholecystitis in the digestive apparatus; Parkinson’s Disease, senile tremors and muscular cramps in the nervous system; acne, eczema, psoriasis, warts, itch of various origins and chilblains in the skin. There was a strengthening of hair and nails, a good effect on diseases typical of the aged (impotency, prostatic hypertrophy, cerebral and circulatory troubles) and on diseases of allergic origin (hay-fever, asthma, urticaria and anaphylactic reactions).

Then Prof. Delbet began to investigate the relationship between Magnesium and Cancer. After a lot of clinical and experimental studies, he found that Magnesium Chloride had a very good effect on prevention of cancer and that it was able to cure several precancerous conditions: leucoplasia, hyperkeratosis, chronic mastitis, etc.

Epidemiological studies confirmed Delbet’s views and demonstrated that the regions with soil more rich in magnesium had less cancer incidence, and vice versa.

In experimental studies, the Magnesium Chloride solution was also able to slow down the course of cancer in laboratory animals.

Prof. Delbet wrote two books, Politique Preventive du Cancer (1944) and L’Agriculture et la Santé (1945), in which he stated his ideas about cancer prevention and a better living. The first is a well documented report of all his studies on Magnesium Chloride.

In 1943 another French doctor, A. Neveu, M.D., used the Magnesium Chloride solution in a case of diphteria to reduce the risks of anaphylactic reaction due to the anti-diphteric serum that he was ready to administer.

To his great surprise, when the next day the laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis of diphteria, the little girl was completely cured, before he could use the serum.

He credited the immuno-stimulant activity to the solution for this result, and he tested it in some other diphteric patients. All the patients were cured in a very short time (24-48 hours), with no after-effects. As Magnesium Chloride has no direct effect on bacteria (i.e.it is not an antibiotic ), Neveu thought that its action was a specific, immuno-enhancing, so it could be useful, in the same manner, also against viral diseases.

So he began to treat some cases of poliomyelitis, and had the same wonderful results. He was very excited and tried to divulge the therapy, but he ran into a wall of hostility and obstructionism from “Official Medicine”. Neither Neveu or Delbet (who was a member of the Academy of Medicine) was able to diffuse Neveu’s extraordinary results. The opposition was total: Professors of Medicine, Medical Peer-Reviews, the Academy itself, all were against the two doctors. “Official Medicine” saw in Magnesium Chloride Therapy a threat to its new and growing business: vaccinations.

Dr. Neveu wasn’t discouraged by this and continued to test this therapy in a wide range of diseases. He obtained very good results in: pharyngitis, tonsillitis, hoarseness, common cold, influenza, asthma, bronchitis, broncho-pneumonia, pulmonary emphysema, “children diseases” (whooping-cough, measles, rubella, mumps, scarlet fever…), alimentary and professional poisonings, gastroenteritis, boils, abscesses, erysipelas, whitlow, septic pricks (wounds), puerperal fever and osteomyelitis. But the indications for Magnesium Chloride therapy don’t end here.

In more recent years other physicians (and I among these) have verified many of Delbet’s and Neveu’s applications and have tried the therapy in other pathologies: asthmatic acute attack, shock, tetanus (for these the solution is administered by intravenous injection); herpes zoster, acute and chronic conjunctivitis, optic neuritis, rheumatic diseases, many allergic diseases, spring-asthenia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (even in cancer it can be an useful adjuvant).

The preceding lists of ailments are by no means exhaustive; maybe other illnesses can be treated with this therapy but, as this is a relatively “young” treatment, we are pioneers, and we need the help of all physicians of good will to definitely establish all the true possibilities of this wonderful therapy.

From a practical standpoint, please remember that only Magnesium CHLORIDE has this “cytophylactic” activity, and no other magnesium salt; probably it’s a molecular, and not a merely ionic, matter.

The solution to be used is a 2.5% Magnesium Chloride hexahydrate (MgCl2-6H2O) solution (i.e.: 25 grams / 1 liter of water).

Dosages are as follows:

– Adults and children over 5 years old………………..125 cc
- 4 year old children……………………………………….100 cc
- 3 year old children…………………………………………80 cc
- 1-2 year old children………………………………………60 cc
- over 6 months old children………………………………30 cc
- under 6 months old children…………………………….15 cc

These doses must be administered BY MOUTH. The only contraindication to Magnesium Chloride Therapy is a severe renal insufficiency. As the magnesium chloride has a mild laxative effect, diarrhea sometimes appears on the first days of therapy, especially when high dosages (i.e. three doses a day) are taken; but this is not a reason to stop the therapy.

The taste of the solution is not very good (it has a bitter-saltish flavor) so a little of fruit juice (grapefruit, orange, lemon) can be added to the solution, or it can be even used in the place of water to make the solution itself.

Grapefruit juice masks the bitter taste very well (especially if cold).

For CHRONIC diseases the standard treatment is one dose morning and evening for a long period (several months at least, but it can be continued for years).

In ACUTE diseases the dose is administered every 6 hours (every 3 hours the first two doses if the case is serious); then space every 8 hours and then 12 hours as improvement goes on. After recovery it’s better going on with a dose every 12 hours for some days.

As a PREVENTIVE measure, and as a magnesium supplement, one dose a day can be taken indefinitely. Magnesium Chloride, even if it’s an inorganic salt, is very well absorbed and it’s a very good supplemental magnesium source.

For INTRAVENOUS injection, the formula is:

Magnesium Chloride hexahydrate……………………25 grams

Distilled Water……………………………………………100 cc

Make injections of 10-20cc (very slowly, over 10-20 minutes) once or twice a day. Of course the solution must be sterilized.

This therapy gives very good results also in Veterinary Medicine, at the appropriate dosages depending upon the size and kind of animals.