The negative consequences of uncontrolled, chronic stress on human health are undeniable.

These effects can occur directly, via autonomic and neuroendocrine responses, and also indirectly, through altered health behaviours. Emerging research suggests that one particularly detrimental impact of prolonged stress is sleep reactivity, which refers to the degree to which stress interferes with the sleep system. If the past few years have taught us anything, it is that resilience is critical in the face of adversity.

As natural health practitioners, it’s our role to keep informed of burgeoning research in this field and equip patients with the tools required to instil a sense of calm amidst unbridled stress.

In turning to evidence-based natural medicines and dietary and lifestyle strategies which improve resilience, the harmful effects of stress may be mitigated, and long-term health preserved.

Recent data indicates that up to 30% of the general population has subclinical magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium deficiency has been identified as a significant contributor to chronic, low-grade inflammation, a risk factor for the development of several common chronic diseases. Magnesium deficiency is also correlated with chronic pain-related conditions, such as migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome, and human studies indicate that supplementation alleviates pain in individuals with inadequate magnesium intake. Similarly, acid-base status influences magnesium levels and impacts concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers.

Magnesium and alkalising minerals supplementation has been shown to significantly reduce inflammatory markers and pain and may be considered as part of an effective treatment strategy to promote physical resilience and improve quality of life.