Named after the famous Surrey town, Epsom salts have long been used as a health tonic for a range of symptoms including weight loss.
For over four hundred years, the salts which are usually dissolved in bath water, have been hailed as a health promoting wonder consisting as they do of magnesium and sulphate. Usually a cup to a cup and a half of the crystals are added to warm water as the bath is being drawn and as one lies in the water the goodness is absorbed through our skin.
Whilst long used especially by athletes to relax tired muscles, not many people are aware of Epsom salts ability to support a weight loss programme. It is unclear as to why exactly the salts promote a slimmer figure however they do possess detoxifying properties and it may be the flushing out of toxins and heavy metals that allows our bodies to shed excess pounds. Overall Epsom salts are great for supporting our muscular system, balancing electrolytes, supporting our nervous system and balancing our moods. Very often people report using the crystals to help them overcome inflammation, and aches and pains including headache.
Although a number of clinical studies have failed to establish a direct medicinal link with Epsom salts, enough anecdotal evidence abounds that supports its health restoring properties. You may like to give them a trial then and discover for yourself whether or not these simple salts can help you to feel more relaxed and promote weight loss…
Epsom salts contain a very mild laxative component and this in itself may ease constipation while supporting the body’s overall detoxification systems. In absorbing additional magnesium in this way, the overall nutrient profile of the body is improved and any risk of metabolic syndrome, which many overweight people can suffer from, is reduced.
Aim to have an Epsom salt bath once or twice a week, depending on how active you are but do remember that if you have any pre-existing kidney problems then avoid magnesium and speak with your GP first. The same applies for anyone that may have diabetes, have a chat with your Doctor first just to be on the safe side. All in all if you are in good health then give these modest little salts a try, treat yourself to a nice long soak in the bath and relax as you soak in the goodness of Epsom salts.