Unexpected muscle cramps can be a pain; literally. Cramps can be caused by a range of things including dehydration, resting after intense exercise and certain medications.
It can also be a symptom of magnesium deficiency; a vital mineral that regulates the body’s nerve and muscle tone. Other symptoms of magnesium deficiency include muscle tension and tightness, weakness, eye twitching and difficulty sleeping.
Dietary sources of magnesium include raw spinach, pumpkin seeds, avocado, bananas and soy beans. Supplements can also be a good way of getting concentrated doses of magnesium; here are some available in New Zealand:
GO HEALTHY GO MAGNESIUM 1-A DAY
• RRP $34.90 (60 Capsules)
• RRP $54.90 (120 Capsules)
• RRP $79.90 (200 Capsules)
This is a high strength, easy to take 1-a-day supplement which contains 500mg of elemental Magnesium per capsule. Sourced from seawater, this natural marine Magnesium contains no Magnesium oxide, giving it superior absorption to the body, as well as being gentle on the digestive tract.
Available at major pharmacies and health stores nationwide. For further information or to locate your nearest stockist visit, www.gohealthynz.co.nz or call GO Healthy’s toll free information line on 0508 466 9327 to speak to a GO Medical herbalist and naturopath.
BLACKMORES BIO MAGNESIUM
RRP $35.90 (150gm)
Blackmores Magnesium Powder is an easily absorbed form of magnesium that supports the relief of muscle cramps and spasms, as well as containing amino acids and B vitamins to assist with the production of energy during exercise.
It’s recommended that magnesium be taken in an easily absorbed powder form for best results. Blackmores Magnesium Powder has a zesty tasting orange flavour and contains no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners.
For more information or to speak to a qualified naturopath, call Blackmores free Advisory Service toll-free on 0508 75 74 73 or visit www.blackmoresnz.co.nz
MUSCLE EASE
RRP $30.00 (Tablets:60)
Muscle cramps can be a simple annoyance or a debilitating episode. Muscle Ease contains essential minerals and Jamaica Dogwood for proper muscle function. During muscle contraction sodium enters the muscle cells. During relaxation, sodium leaves and potassium enters the cells. This is why potassium is so important to healthy muscle function. The average person has a potassium to sodium ratio of 1:2, while it should be about 5:1. This 5:1 ratio is a reason so many people are affected by muscle cramps.
Magnesium acts as the switch that tells the muscle to contract or relax. Muscle Ease provides three forms of magnesium to achieve optimal absorption for muscle health. Jamaica dogwood extract is an herb shown to promote normal muscle relaxation without causing someone to become tired or sleepy. Jamaica dogwood has been used traditionally in the West Indies and South America for various types of pain.
For more information or to purchase, visit www.naturalmeds.co.nz
SLEEP DROPS POWDER – ESSENTIAL SLEEP AND STRESS NUTRIENTS
RRP $35.00
Kirsten Taylor, one of New Zealand’s top sleep experts and founder of Kiwi company SleepDrops, says magnesium is especially crucial in helping to keep the body and mind healthy.
Sleep Drops Powder is a comprehensive formula containing Tart Cherry skin extract, a potent antioxidant which provides guaranteed levels of melatonin, a hormone essential for regulating body temperature, energy levels, anti-inflammatory responses and muscle fatigue. The formula also includes a high dose of Vitamin C and two types of magnesium for increased absorption and other essential cofactors to help bring overall balance to the body.
SleepDrops Powder is available to purchase now from www.sleepdrops.co.nz and from all health stores and pharmacies nationwide.
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