Hey Moms, Let's Chat About Helping Our Kids with School Stress!
Hi there, fellow moms! With school in full swing, it’s common for our kids to feel a bit overwhelmed or anxious. As a professional herbalist and mom, I know how important it is to support our children's mental well-being. Today, I want to share some natural ways to balance mood and reduce anxiety, focusing on the benefits of magnesium and saffron. Let’s dive in!

The Impact of Anxiety and Mood on School Success
Anxiety and mood swings can significantly affect a child's performance in school. Anxiety can lead to trouble concentrating, poor test performance, and difficulty in social situations. A balanced mood, on the other hand, can enhance focus, improve interactions with peers, and boost overall academic success.
Magnesium: A Natural Anxiety Reliever
Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including nerve function and muscle relaxation. It’s particularly effective in reducing anxiety.
Magnesium and Anxiety Relief
Research has shown that magnesium can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. Here’s how:
- Study Highlights:
- A study published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine found that magnesium supplementation can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety.
- Another study in Nutrients reported that magnesium has a beneficial effect on anxiety in individuals with mild to moderate anxiety.
Types of Magnesium: Citrate vs. Glycinate
Magnesium Citrate:
- Pros:
- Highly bioavailable, meaning it’s easily absorbed by the body.
- Effective as a mild laxative, which can be beneficial for kids who suffer from constipation.
- Cons:
- The laxative effect can be too strong for some children, causing digestive discomfort.
- Not always the best option for those with sensitive stomachs.
Magnesium Glycinate:
- Pros:
- Highly bioavailable and gentle on the stomach.
- Known for its calming effects, making it ideal for anxiety relief without causing digestive issues.
- Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other forms of magnesium.
- May not be as effective for addressing constipation.
Using Magnesium Citrate and Glycinate Together:
- Pros:
- Combining the two can provide a balanced approach, leveraging the calming effects of glycinate and the bioavailability of citrate.
- Can address both anxiety and occasional digestive issues.
- Cons:
- Managing dosages can be tricky, and it’s important to avoid taking too much magnesium, which can lead to diarrhea and other side effects.
- It's essential to monitor how your child responds to the combination and adjust as necessary.
Using Magnesium Citrate Alone:
- Pros:
- Effective for increasing magnesium levels and addressing mild anxiety.
- Can help with constipation, providing dual benefits.
- Cons:
- The laxative effect can be a downside if your child doesn’t need help with digestion.
- It may cause digestive discomfort if taken in large amounts or on an empty stomach.
References:
- Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine: Magnesium and Anxiety Study
- Nutrients: Magnesium’s Effect on Anxiety
- Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology: Saffron and Mood Study
- Phytotherapy Research: Saffron vs. Fluoxetine Study