Is it Better to Take Magnesium Orally or Transdermally?

Magnesium may not be the most present mineral in our bodies, but it certainly plays a crucial role in our overall health.

Magnesium deficiency is often overlooked and rarely tested.  Unfortunately, we have yet to remember magnesium in the same way we do other minerals.

We associate potassium with bananas, and calcium with dairy, but most are unsure of the links to magnesium.

This mineral is needed for many biochemical functions in our bodies such as regulating our heartbeat rhythms and a magnesium deficiency affects us in more ways than we realize.

This deficiency can cause noticeable symptoms including;

• Muscle aches
• Muscle spasms
• Slowed and poor digestion
• Anxiety
• Poor sleep quality   

But magnesium is needed for so much more!

The mineral helps alleviate constipation and maintain healthy blood pressure.

Magnesium is also just as important for bone health as calcium and helps fight osteoporosis while boosting energy and improving heart function.

What Forms of Supplementation are There?

The recommended daily intake of magnesium for the average adult is 400 mg, and although there are numerous foods that contain magnesium, due to our mineral depleted soils, highly processed diets, and poor nutrient absorption, magnesium deficiency is rising.

But not to worry! There are many options for magnesium supplements. Here are three of the most well-known and common choices:

1. Magnesium Chloride

If you’re looking to detox, magnesium chloride is one of the best forms to take because it helps remove waste from your body’s cells and tissues.

Magnesium Chloride can be taken orally as Magnesium Chloride USP or topically as Magnesium Chloride Flakes.

Due to its water solubility, magnesium chloride USP has one of the best absorption rates compared to other oral forms of magnesium. 

2. Magnesium Oil

Magnesium oils are the trendy option and are becoming increasingly popular. Magnesium oil is usually comprised of magnesium chloride and water.

The oil soaks into your skin with no greasiness, or unpleasant residue. This supplement form is usually found in spray bottles.

And because of its topical application, magnesium oils also improve the health of your skin.

3. Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) 

When you come across this form of magnesium just think salt: Epsom salt to be more specific.

All you need to do is add some magnesium sulfate to a hot bath and soak.

This form of magnesium is most widely known for soothing sore muscles, but may not be the best choice for those with sulfur allergies.

What are the Benefits of Taking Magnesium Orally?

Given the lack of nutrient content in modern day food, it’s no surprise that there is an increased reliance on nutritional supplementation.

Oral supplements are available in both pre-packaged capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form.

Some of the most common magnesium supplements are taken orally and provide the following benefits:

1. Easy and Quick Usage

Oral magnesium supplements are easy to take. Our magnesium chloride USP will come in a sealed bag with simple directions printed on the package. You only need to take the supplement twice a day.

2. Easily Available and Convenient

The great thing about oral supplements is that they can be taken anywhere.

Since our magnesium supplement is a powder, you can dissolve this in bottled water, a smoothie, or juice and sip this drink on the go!

What are the Benefits of Taking Magnesium Transdermally?

When we need supplements, it is fair to say that most of us automatically turn to oral supplement options.

Although there are great benefits to oral supplementation, there are also numerous advantages to topical supplements.

1. Rapid Absorption

Apart from magnesium sulfate, when applying magnesium oil or magnesium spray, there is a rapid absorption rate that is believed to exceed the absorption rate of oral supplements.

There are several digestive issues that may prevent or affect the absorption of magnesium when ingested, but with transdermal options, this issue seems to be bypassed.

2. Higher Tolerance

Like with certain foods, some of us may not tolerate the ingestion of oral supplements.

For some, it may be an absorption issue. This is because magnesium is believed to have laxative properties and if taken incorrectly, may cause ongoing problems.

So, for those with digestive issues, or who need rapid results, magnesium sulfate, magnesium chloride flakes, and magnesium oil may be better tolerated by the body.

So Which Form of Magnesium is Better?

With several forms of magnesium available, there's something for everyone!

You may even use transdermal magnesium in combination with oral supplements to provide an extra boost of magnesium.

In fact, oral and transdermal magnesium both offer great benefits, so it’s hard to say whether one is ultimately better than the other.

What this really comes down to is personal preference.

It is important to consider how much magnesium you need, how often you must take the supplement, which option you are more likely to stick with and which one you feel benefits you the most overall.

The good news is we offer both transdermal and oral forms of magnesium if you’re looking to increase your magnesium levels and are not completely sure which one works best for your body and lifestyle.

Be sure to speak with your healthcare professional before taking any magnesium supplements and follow directions appropriately.

If you suffer from any side effects, it is best to discontinue supplement use until you consult with your doctor.

Shop our magnesium products below and be on your way to better health.

Related Posts:

• The Best Way to Use Magnesium to Improve Fibromyalgia
• Here's How to Know You're Magnesium Deficient
• Got Arthritis? You Should Add Magnesium to Your Diet