
Magnesium: A Simple Dietary Strategy to Calm Anxiety
Magnesium supports the nervous system and helps regulate the calming neurotransmitter GABA, with deficiency linked to higher anxiety. Aim to meet daily magnesium needs through a varied, magnesium-rich diet (beans, lentils, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fish, avocado, chocolate, pumpkin/chia seeds, tart cherries) before turning to supplements. If a deficiency is confirmed by a clinician, a magnesium supplement can help, with magnesium glycinate favored for brain uptake; timing can be morning or night depending on when anxiety or sleep issues are worse. The target daily intake is about 400–420 mg.













