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Soaking in a hot bath is relaxing, but addingmagnesiumflakes may be extra soothing.

Magnesium helps reducemuscle cramps, and many people now takemagnesium supplements for stress relief.

Research on magnesium absorption through the skin is mixed, but that doesnt mean its ineffective, saidK.

woman relaxing in bath

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A magnesium flake bath may provide similar benefits to supplements, she added.

How Do Magnesium Flakes Work?

The amount of magnesium that can be absorbed through the skin during a bath is unclear.

However, the concept behind soaking in mineral baths is nothing new.

Magnesium may help with anxiety due to the way it affects the brain.

Magnesium has also been linked with decreased symptoms ofdepressionand lowercortisollevels.

Who Might Benefit Most from Magnesium Flakes?

If you have a diagnosedmagnesium deficiency, you may need to take an oral supplement to stay healthy.

But magnesium flake baths could be particularly helpful for people who can’t tolerateoral magnesium supplement, Garling-Nanez said.

This includes people with irritable bowel syndrome, Crohns disease, and other conditions that affect the gut.

Are Magnesium Flakes Safe?

They may help with anxiety symptoms, reduce muscle cramps and soreness, and help you sleep.

Shin HJ, Na HS, Do SH.Magnesium and pain.Nutrients.

2020;94(2):150.