7. Applying magnesium to your skin is beneficial: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim; therefore, it’s a myth. While many consumers rave about transdermal application of magnesium, there is no evidence to support its positive use. Magnesium salt baths, masks and sprays should never be used in lieu of an oral supplement prescribed by a physician.
8. Magnesium supplements reduce blood pressure: Studies on this subject are inconclusive. If magnesium supplements have any effect on high blood pressure, it’s insignificant. However, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. An individuals with high blood pressure should make major life changes, including exercise, quitting smoking and eating healthier.
9. Magnesium is linked to diabetes: Yes, it’s true. Magnesium is linked to diabetes — but that’s not a bad thing. In fact, magnesium is known to help break down sugars. Individuals with higher amounts of magnesium in their diets have a reduced risk of developing certain diseases, including type 2 diabetes.
10. You should take magnesium supplements while pregnant: A pregnant woman should consult with her physician and OBGYN before taking any type of supplement or medication. However, it is important to note that magnesium deficiency has never been reported to occur in healthy individuals consuming ordinary diets. The safety of magnesium supplements given during pregnancy is inconclusive, as there are no reported studies.
11. Cooking vegetables depletes magnesium: It sounds true, doesn’t it? Surprise! An article published by The Globe and Mail argues that cooking some vegetables is more beneficial to our health. Cooked spinach, for example, offers more magnesium and iron to our bodies than raw spinach.
12. Magnesium sulfate is not safe to consume: Epsom salts are an FDA-approved laxative, but it’s important to follow its directions to maintain safety. Magnesium sulfate taken orally in large, frequent doses can cause toxicity; however, magnesium sulfate laxatives are generally considered safe.
13. Coffee depletes magnesium: Actually, coffee contains magnesium. Each cup of coffee has approximately 7 milograms of magnesium. It’s not exactly a health drink, but it certainly isn’t robbing your body of magnesium.
14. Magnesium makes people anxious: To the contrary, studies show that magnesium has a calming effect when used by people with affective disorders. It appears that magnesium plays a vital role in the central nervous system, and one doctor even refers to it as “the original chill pill” in an article published by Psychology Today.
15. Actress Carrie Fisher died from a magnesium deficiency: Actress Carrie Fisher died of a heart attack in 2016. There is no evidence to support the claim that Fisher died from a magnesium deficiency. While it’s true that a magnesium deficiency can lead to heart-related problems or even death, many health conditions can cause a heart attack.
