Do you know that Magnesium is needed for more than 350 biomedical reactions in the body? It is in fact critical to neurotransmitter function, core energy metabolism, hormone metabolism and muscle function, bowel function, and guess what else? Memory! It also has a calming effect on the nervous system.
For our children with Autism, a deficiency in magnesium can lead to:
• ADHD Symptoms (hyperactivity, inattention)
• Mood dysregulation including low fat mood & anxiety
• Cognitive problems
• Emotional overreaction
• Muscle spasm (restless legs)
• Poor Sleep Quality (tossing and turning)
• Sound or Light sensitivity
• Easily startled
• Poor self-regulation
If that sounds like your child, you cannot go wrong with supplementing with Magnesium. It is a critical mineral in the body. You have to however, find a type of magnesium that suits your child, or it can cause loose stools. Dosing matters too.
Types of Magnesium
Gentle: chelates, aspartates, glycinates, and gluconates.
Laxative stool effect: citrates, chlorides, and sulfates.
Natural Food Sources of Magnesium
You can find magnesium naturally through vegetables, leafy greens, beans, nuts, seeds and fruits. Spinach has the highest amount of magnesium in it. Those with oxalate sensitivity however should watch out.
The easiest form of Magnesium available
Ocean water!! It is naturally rich in magnesium. It helps release stress, powerful for vagus nerve work, relaxes your muscles and promotes deep sleep. It stimulates the parasympathetic system which is responsible for rest and repair and releases dopamine and serotonin - natural hormones for happiness, better mood, and sleep.
Epsom Salt Baths
Since Ocean bathing every day is hardly practical. You can also do Epsom salt baths for your child to promote the above benefits. Include this with dry brushing, some personal time with your child for light play and bonding, and you have yourself a powerful tool of connecting with your child, promoting language and helping them regulate - all in one!
Do-it-yourself Magnesium Spray
However sometimes even Epsom Salt Baths are not possible every day. In the comments you will find a link to make your own Magnesium spray. You can spray this on your child's feet, back and back of the neck (away from eyes and face) for additional support. While topical magnesium isn't the best way of absorption, I have found it still has a profound effect in calming down our kids and the moms too! Try it on yourself!
Contributed by:
Batool Mirza
