11 hours Ago By Zena le Roux
Fibromyalgia is a difficult condition to diagnose and even harder to treat—especially since it presents no visible injury, yet causes widespread, chronic pain. The study’s primary goal was to assess whether magnesium could lower stress levels—since stress often triggers fibromyalgia flare-ups. Researchers also tracked pain, sleep quality, fatigue, and overall well-being.
At the end of the month, the results were mixed. Overall stress levels trended downward in the magnesium group, but the results were not significant. However, on closer examination, researchers noticed something interesting: Among participants who started the study with mild to moderate stress, magnesium made a clear difference.
In that subgroup, stress scores dropped significantly, while the placebo group saw little to no change. Pain severity also declined with magnesium supplementation—a small but meaningful shift that suggested the mineral might have a role in easing fibromyalgia’s burden. In moderately stressed participants, pain scores dropped from 5.
7 to 5.1 on a 10-point scale, while the placebo group showed no improvement. Magnesium blood levels are typically tested through a serum magnesium test, though this measures only a small fraction of total magnesium in the body—since most magnesium is stored in bones and tissues.
It’s important to note that a normal serum level doesn’t necessarily rule out magnesium deficiency in tissues. In some cases, hair analysis or urine tests can be used to assess magnesium status, though these methods are less common. “I’ve seen great results with magnesium in cases of fibromyalgia, fatigue-pain syndromes, migraines, tension headaches, and more,” said Duval.
Magnesium plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of both migraines and tension-type headaches. While the exact cause of migraines remains unclear, magnesium is known to influence certain mechanisms, including neurotransmitter release, brain excitability, and blood clotting. Low magnesium levels have consistently been linked to migraines, and some studies suggest that supplementation may help reduce the frequency or severity of attacks.
One of the key ways magnesium helps reduce pain is by blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which play a critical role in nerve cell communication. While these receptors are important for learning and memory, the overactivation of NMDA receptors allows excessive calcium to enter neurons, contributing to pain. By preventing calcium from entering cells through NMDA receptors, magnesium helps prevent the nervous system from becoming overly sensitive to pain and offers relief for various pain conditions.
“Magnesium is a powerful modulator of both pain and inflammation,” Duval said. Magnesium’s role in reducing pain perception could also be linked to its ability to regulate muscle contraction and protect cartilage from degradation, Emma Laing, a registered dietitian nutritionist with a doctoral degree in foods and nutrition, told The Epoch Times. Oral and intravenous (IV) magnesium supplementation differ in how quickly and effectively they work.
Oral supplements—typically pills or powders—are best for mild to moderate deficiencies or long-term maintenance, though they may cause digestive side effects such as diarrhea and are absorbed more slowly. On the other hand, IV magnesium is administered directly into a vein and is used in more urgent or severe cases—like eclampsia, arrhythmias, or when the oral route isn’t an option. It works quickly and bypasses the gut.
However, IV administration needs medical supervision due to the risk of overdose and isn’t a good option for routine use. Magnesium’s effectiveness in managing pain depends not only on its mechanisms but also on the form in which it’s taken. Magnesium glycinate, for example, is well-absorbed and has a calming effect, making it ideal for muscle tension, such as that experienced with fibromyalgia, Duval said.
She also mentioned that topical magnesium chloride, commonly found in Epsom salts, is excellent for offering targeted relief to sore muscles. Pumpkin seeds Leafy greens Avocados Cashews Dark chocolate Bananas However, Duval often focuses on symptoms rather than relying solely on blood tests to measure progress. For example, magnesium may reduce the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers and diuretics, which can either lower or increase magnesium levels in the body.
Additionally, taking magnesium alongside supplements like calcium or vitamin D may require adjustments in dosage. It is therefore crucial to consult with your health care provider before starting supplementation..
