I suffered through another day of cold weather waiting for spring, still longing for the 70-degree temperatures I enjoyed during my cruise and my Miami adventure. I opted to stay indoors and tackle a serious topic. Magnesium. Wait, ... before you give up on this newsletter, please continue to read. You may find it enlightening!

Magnesium has range. Magnesium glycinate is the calm friend who tells you everything is going to be ok. Magnesium citrate is the friend who helps you clean out your closet - quickly. Magnesium oxide is the guy who comes to a potluck party uninvited and brings a bag of ice. And magnesium L-threonate is the brainy one who does math for fun.

Studies report that 60% of adults get less than the recommended daily intake of magnesium. It is an essential mineral found in cells, mostly present in bones. It is needed for muscle and nerve function, maintaining blood sugar levels, blood pressure maintenance, protein formation, converting food to energy and brain health.

Sounds important! When I found out through a blood test that I was deficient, I purchased a delicious magnesium gummy. But was it the right magnesium supplement for me?

Choosing a magnesium supplement is a complicated matter. The magnesium citrate sounded like a good choice because it promoted better absorption of the magnesium. It also acts as a mild laxative, so may not be appropriate for everyone, or for everyday use. Magnesium glycinate supplements have a calming effect, to help reduction of stress and anxiety; and may help promote sleep. It is gentle on the stomach and should be taken at night. Magnesium maleate helps promote energy and reduce muscle soreness. Magnesium oxide is a strong laxative and is poorly absorbed. It is found in some weight loss supplements but does not effectively promote weight loss. The weight that you lose is mostly water weight. Magnesium L-threonate supports cognitive function and fights brain fog. There are a few other forms of magnesium that are harder to find on your pharmacy shelf and are less widely used, but if you do the research, you might prefer one of them. Which magnesium is right for you, and do you need it?

My solution. I first bought the magnesium citrate, not realizing it would be a mild laxative. Since I have many digestive and stress related issues, I first didn't realize it was the wrong magnesium supplement for my everyday use. After a while I realized the magnesium was causing digestive problems and that I could not tolerate a full dose every day. The best option for me was the magnesium glycinate at night, to reduce stress and help promote sleep. I keep the magnesium citrate on hand, and substitute if I need its laxative properties. Who knew that this vital nutrient had personalities? I hope you enjoyed my little detour into the world of magnesium. This discussion may help someone who is deficient. Now let's think about spring!

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I am always looking for content! If you want more interesting newsletters, let me know. Otherwise, you will have to read my nerdy health insights, which I find intriguing, but others might not. Maybe I'll include a recipe next week. Or I might have a photo of my new cover for Faulty Impressions. I am working with a professional designer to revamp my covers but will always have a place in my heart for my funny, personalized attempts. Until next week, be well, be happy, and have a happy St. Patrick's Day! Joanne