Magnesium is often called a "wonder nutrient" — and for good reason.

It's involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including the systems that regulate sleep, stress, hormones and nervous system balance.

In this episode we look at why magnesium is particularly important for women, especially if you're struggling with sleep, stress, PMS or the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause.

Magnesium helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system (your "rest and digest" mode), supports calming neurotransmitters like GABA, and plays an important role in melatonin production, all essential for good quality sleep.

In this episode we explore:

• Why magnesium levels can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle • How magnesium supports mood, sleep and PMS symptoms • The connection between magnesium, vitamin D and bone health • Why magnesium needs often increase during perimenopause • The different forms of magnesium and which ones actually work • Food sources that can help increase your intake naturally

A big thank you to our podcast sponsors Revive Active for supporting the Fab Female Nutrition podcast. Their magnesium complex combines several well-absorbed forms of magnesium designed to support energy, muscle function and nervous system balance - it's the one I choose to support my own health. (use Wendy10 at checkout to enjoy 10% off)

If sleep has been feeling elusive, this episode will help you understand why, and what simple steps might help.