Magnesium during pregnancy and nursing

Magnesium requirements during pregnancy and nursing

The need for magnesium increases considerably with the growth of the fetus. At the same time, hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the excretion of magnesium via the kidneys by about 25 percent. Magnesium excretion paired with increased magnesium need can not be compensated for by even the healthiest nutrition plan. For this reason, every pregnant woman and breastfeeding mother should take magnesium supplements.

Consequences of magnesium deficiency

Magnesium deficiency can severely affect a pregnancy. In addition to constipation, increased morning sickness and nighttime leg cramps, a pregnant woman can also experience high blood pressure with reduced blood flow to the placenta and uterus. There may be an increased risk of early contractions, bleeding, and premature birth.

How magnesium helps during pregnancy and nursing

Sufficient magnesium intake can prevent or at least reduce and alleviate typical pregnancy symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and muscle cramps. The muscle-relaxing effect of magnesium prevents muscle cramps and early contractions. In addition, magnesium can help prevent severe pregnancy complications. Magnesium relaxes the muscles of the blood vessels and thus counteracts high blood pressure. With the help of magnesium, sugar-building blocks can be better transported into body cells because it improves the insulin effect, which can also prevent gestational diabetes.

Breastfeeding mothers suffer chronically from a deficiency in vital substances, because nature makes it that the fetus receives the first and foremost care. This is especially true for magnesium. Only when sufficient magnesium is available will the mother also get something of it.

External use of magnesium during pregnancy and nursing

External applications of magnesium have proven especially useful to pregnant and nursing mothers. Magnesium relieves strain on the gastrointestinal tract and effects can be seen, for example, on muscle cramps in the legs or hardening of the abdomen. Simply rubbing magnesium oil gently on to the affected area will relieve cramping in a few moments.

Due to the change in posture during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the back particularly suffers. The result is tension in the neck, shoulder and lower back. A massage with magnesium gel gently relaxes the stiff muscles.

Restlessness and sleep disorders can be alleviated with a magnesium bath. Twenty minutes in a magnesium bath creates a restful environment and at the same time boosts strength and energy. A feeling of relaxation flows through the entire body and allows the expectant mother to experience a new dimension of peace.

If a full bath is too expensive, a magnesium foot bath can provide a similar benefit. Legs and feet in pregnancy are exposed to particular strain due to the displaced statics and increased weight. A 15-minute magnesium foot bath provides not only a balm for feet, but a rest for the whole body.

Enjoy!