Magnesium is an essential mineral required for a range of biochemical activities in the human body—including protein production, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone development. Magnesium is widely distributed in both animal and plant foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. In Australia, major food sources of magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and even dark chocolate.

Despite this, many Australians aren’t getting enough. According to the Australian Health Survey, in 2011–12, one in three people aged two years and over (37% of males and 34% of females) did not meet their requirements for magnesium. 34 % of women!!!!
Inadequate intakes were more common in those aged nine years and over, with 61% of males and 72% of females aged 14–18 years falling short. 72%!!! What the heck!
Among adults, males aged 19+ were more likely than females to have inadequate intakes (41% compared with 35%). In contrast, almost all children aged 2–8 years met their magnesium requirements.

Here's the kicker. If you’re a busy mum juggling work, family, and self-care (ha ha, what "self care"), you’re probably no stranger to feeling tired, frazzled, or just not quite yourself. Magnesium plays a key role in your nervous system, muscles, sleep, and energy production. If you don't have enough of it, your body can't do these things well... It is like driving a car with no headlights that work. The car functions but not quite how it is meant to. 

The good news is, when you’re running low, your body can send out some pretty clear SOS signals. Time to tune in.

Magnesium plays a key role in energy production. If you’re low, you might feel wiped out, sluggish, or like you’re running on empty—even if you’re getting enough rest.

Frequent muscle cramps, twitches, tensions can get so persistent that they can even present as looking like restless leg syndrome. This can be a sign you could do with a boost of magnesium. This is especially common during pregnancy or after intense exercise.

Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters that calm your nervous system and prepare your body for sleep. Low levels can make it harder to fall asleep—or stay asleep through the night. Magnesium can help you sleep longer, get better quality sleep, and feel less tired.

Low magnesium has been linked to more frequent headaches and migraines, especially in women.

The good news? Topping up your magnesium doesn’t have to mean a complete diet overhaul or swallowing handfuls of supplements.