My Journey to Better Gut Health: How Magnesium Changed Everything

In 2018, I had my gallbladder removed. Like many others who undergo this procedure, I wasn't given much guidance on how it might impact my digestion or overall health. Life went on, but over the years, subtle issues began to creep in — issues I didn’t even realize were connected to my missing gallbladder.

By 2024, I found myself struggling. Constipation became a constant battle. I was tired all the time, my emotions felt unpredictable, and my hemoglobin levels were all over the place. Sleep was elusive, my cortisol levels seemed out of whack, and weight loss felt impossible no matter what I tried. I knew something had to change, so I took matters into my own hands and began researching ways to improve my health.

Step 1: Understanding the Role of Bile

The first big "aha" moment came when I learned about the critical role bile plays in digestion. Without a gallbladder, my body wasn't getting the bile dump it needed to properly digest fats or absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Enter ox bile supplements. These were a game-changer for me. Once I added ox bile to my routine, I noticed a dramatic improvement in how my body handled fats. I began absorbing nutrients more effectively, which laid the groundwork for healing and balance.

Step 2: Balancing My Gut

With bile under control, I turned my attention to my gut health. I introduced a high-quality prebiotic and probiotic into my daily routine to help rebuild and balance my gut microbiome. This, in turn, helped alleviate constipation and improved my overall digestive function. To address inflammation and support digestion further, I started taking collagen, which brought benefits I hadn’t even expected, like healthier skin and joints.

Digestive enzymes were my next addition. These helped break down other foods more efficiently, reducing bloating and making meals feel less like a chore for my stomach. These simple changes brought noticeable improvements to my anemia, cortisol levels, and even my sleep. But I wasn’t done yet.

Step 3: Mindful Lifestyle Shifts

I decided to overhaul my mornings and evenings to support my body even further. I gave up coffee—a tough but necessary decision—and switched to Yerba Maté tea in the morning for a gentle energy boost without the jitters. At night, I swapped Netflix binges with a calming lemon balm tea ritual to help me unwind.

Step 4: The Magnesium Miracle

Perhaps the most surprising addition to my routine was magnesium—a mineral I had overlooked for years. Magnesium is a powerhouse for holistic health and natural remedies, known for its ability to promote relaxation, improve sleep, and support muscle and nerve function. I began applying topical magnesium to my feet before bed to improve my sleep and to my stomach to ensure I wasn’t deficient. The results were astonishing. I felt more rested, recharged, and focused. With newfound energy, I finally had the motivation to start a simple morning exercise routine, which further boosted my mood and overall health.

Step 5: Seeing the Transformation

The changes I made weren’t overnight fixes, but they were profound. My skin glows in a way it hasn’t in years, my stomach feels less bloated, and my outlook on life is brighter. For the first time in a long time, I feel like myself again.

It’s not just about the physical transformation, though. Addressing my health holistically—from bile supplementation to gut support to magnesium—has helped me reconnect with my body and my life. Each step was a building block, creating a stronger, healthier foundation for my well-being.

Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with digestion, low energy, or hormonal imbalances, know that you’re not alone. Your body might just be asking for a little extra support. Whether it’s understanding how your gallbladder impacts digestion, embracing probiotics, or giving magnesium a try, small, intentional changes can make a world of difference. Holistic medicine and natural remedies are powerful tools for improving your overall well-being. Take it one step at a time and celebrate every win along the way—your journey to better health is worth it!