Stress and anxiety: the benefits of magnesium for women's health

Abstract

Magnesium is an essential ally for nervous system balance and hormonal health. In its bisglycinate form, it is the most effective: better tolerated by the body, and its benefits in reducing stress and anxiety are well established.

Table of contents

  1. 01. Understanding the role of magnesium
  2. 02. Why choose Magnesium Bisglycinate?
  3. 03. Magnesium & PCOS: a valuable ally
  4. 04. Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are often more prone to stress, nervous fatigue and anxiety.
  5. 05. What if I don't have a hormonal condition? Can I still take it?
  6. 06. How should Magnesium Bisglycinate be taken?
  7. 07. Why SOVA Magnesium combines taurine & vitamin B6

When stress starts to settle in, when you struggle to sleep, or when you feel nervous without really knowing why, it may be your body sending you a signal that you’re low in magnesium.

This essential mineral plays a key role in nervous system relaxation, sleep quality and hormonal regulation. Unfortunately, for women, these three pillars are often challenged throughout the menstrual cycle and during hormonal fluctuations.

Understanding the role of magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It contributes to energy production, muscle health, proper nervous system function and hormonal balance.

When magnesium levels are low, symptoms are often quite telling:

  • Irritability, anxiety and sleep disturbances

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Sugar or salt cravings

  • Muscle contractions — for example, eyelid twitching or the sensation of the heart “skipping” or contracting in the chest can be signs of magnesium deficiency

These signs are particularly common in women, whose needs fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes. Chronic stress or conditions such as PCOS can further deplete magnesium stores (1).

Why choose Magnesium Bisglycinate?

Not all forms of magnesium are created equal. Some forms, such as marine magnesium or magnesium oxide, are often poorly absorbed and may cause digestive discomfort.

Magnesium bisglycinate, on the other hand, is bound to two molecules of glycine — a naturally calming amino acid. This combination makes it:

  • Highly bioavailable (better absorbed by the gut)
  • Gentle and calming for the nervous system
  • Free from laxative effects, unlike some other forms of magnesium

Studies show that magnesium bisglycinate allows for superior cellular absorption compared to magnesium citrate or sulphate (2). This makes it an ideal form for calming the mind while supporting women’s physiology.

Magnesium & PCOS: a valuable ally

Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are often more prone to stress, nervous fatigue and anxiety.

PCOS disrupts hormonal regulation (insulin, testosterone, cortisol), creating a metabolic imbalance that further depletes magnesium levels.

According to several studies, appropriate supplementation may:

  • Improve insulin sensitivity and support weight regulation (3)
  • Reduce menstrual pain
  • Significantly reduce anxiety symptoms and improve sleep quality (4)
  • Help limit chronic fatigue

👉 To learn more, feel free to explore our articles on mental health and stress management with PCOS.

What if I don't have a hormonal condition? Can I still take it?

Absolutely 🌿 Magnesium bisglycinate is beneficial for anyone experiencing stress, nervous fatigue or sleep disturbances.

It can also be helpful during:

  • Premenstrual phases (irritability, pain, fatigue)
  • Menopause (anxiety, insomnia, palpitations)
  • Seasonal changes or periods of intense workload

Its calming action helps every woman restore inner balance, whatever the source of tension.

How should Magnesium Bisglycinate be taken?

Magnesium is usually taken as a course lasting 1 to 3 months, depending on individual needs.

Recommended intake: split the dose of 3 capsules throughout the day, as the body typically absorbs only one capsule per meal.

Practical tips

  • Avoid taking magnesium at the same time as coffee or tea (they reduce absorption)
  • Choose capsules or powders without additives or added sugars
  • Check for the presence of vitamin B6, which optimises absorption, and taurine, which helps calm the nervous system

Why SOVA Magnesium combines taurine & vitamin B6

At SOVA, our magnesium bisglycinate is formulated with taurine and vitamin B6: two natural synergies that enhance its effectiveness.

🌿 Taurine: the calming amino acid

Contrary to popular belief, taurine is not stimulating — quite the opposite. Taurine acts gently on the central nervous system, enhances the calming effects of magnesium and supports mental focus.

Research suggests that taurine may reduce oxidative stress and improve sleep quality (5).

💛 Vitamin B6: the calm-supporting cofactor

Vitamin B6 is essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA, both involved in emotional regulation. It also helps magnesium enter cells more efficiently.

This triple synergy (magnesium bisglycinate + taurine + vitamin B6) makes for a complete formula designed to calm the mind and support hormonal health.

👉 Discover SOVA’s Stress & Sleep formula

Eva Lecoq
SOVA cofounder

Co-founder of SOVA, Eva is deeply passionate about women’s health and driven to improve the lives of women with PCOS through SOVA.

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SOVA compared to other supplements

SOVA was created by two sisters with PCOS who wanted products that truly worked. Our formulas are developed in-house with women’s health and micronutrition experts, using ingredients backed by clinical studies and compliant with European regulations.

What makes us different?
  • Built by women with PCOS, we know the reality of the symptoms.
  • Clinically studied, high-quality ingredients, including patented forms like Quatrefolic® and an optimal Myo-/D-Chiro Inositol ratio.
  • Holistic support for hormonal balance, metabolic health, inflammation, mood and cycle regulation.
  • Transparent, science-led formulas with no unnecessary additives.
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Frequently asked questions

What is the best form of magnesium to reduce stress and anxiety?

Magnesium bisglycinate is the most easily absorbed and the gentlest on digestion. It works in synergy with glycine to help calm the nervous system.

How should you do a magnesium course?

A course usually lasts between 1 and 3 months. Magnesium is best taken in the evening, away from coffee or tea. In cases of intense stress, splitting the dose between morning and evening can be helpful.

What are natural remedies to help reduce stress?

Alongside magnesium: conscious breathing, adaptogenic herbs (such as ashwagandha and rhodiola), gentle walking, regular sleep, and a diet rich in fibre and omega-3 fatty acids.

Why are women with PCOS particularly prone to anxiety?

PCOS disrupts hormone production (testosterone, insulin, cortisol). These imbalances affect neurotransmitters involved in wellbeing, making women more sensitive to stress and emotional fluctuations.