Using food-grade Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) in drinking water as a magnesium supplement is an option, although there are considerations to keep in mind:

1. Dosage and Concentration: Magnesium sulfate is a source of elemental magnesium. For every gram of magnesium sulfate, it contains approximately 98.6 mg of elemental magnesium¹. It is essential to ensure you are consuming an appropriate amount. Overconsumption can lead to laxative effects and other health issues.

2. Efficacy: While food-grade Epsom salt can increase your magnesium intake, the bioavailability (absorption rate) of magnesium sulfate differs from other forms like magnesium glycinate. Magnesium glycinate is often preferred for supplementation because it is well-absorbed and gentle on the stomach.

3. Safety: Ensure that the Epsom salt is indeed food-grade and free from contaminants, including heavy metals. Certificates of analysis from reputable suppliers can confirm this. Additionally, always follow recommended guidelines for safe dosage.

4. Usage Frequency: Using Epsom salt intermittently is generally safe for most adults, but it should not be your primary source of magnesium supplementation if you have specific health conditions that require consistent magnesium intake.

Given these points, while it is a cost-effective method, it is not typically recommended as a long-term solution compared to specifically designed magnesium supplements, such as magnesium glycinate, which offer better absorption and are tailored for dietary supplementation.

If you need further information on magnesium supplementation options or would like product recommendations, let me know!

Footnotes

1. Magnesium Sulfate - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf ↩