Are You Deficient in Magnesium?

Magnesium is the partner mineral to calcium. Typically wherever calcium is needed in the body, magnesium is also required. Magnesium is Nature’s relaxation and anti-stress mineral, since it plays an important role in helping our bodies combat stress. It is necessary for healthy artery, blood, bone, heart, muscle and nerve function, yet experts estimate that approximately 80 percent of the population in North America may be deficient in this important mineral. 

Magnesium is vitally important to our health and wellbeing. It is involved in the production of energy for most of our bodily processes and even the structuring of our basic genetic material is dependent on adequate amounts of magnesium. Your body also requires adequate supplies of magnesium to manufacture the approximately 500 enzymes needed for basic life and metabolic functions. 

ARE YOU DEFICIENT IN MAGNESIUM?

FOOD SOURCES OF MAGNESIUM

almonds
sesame seeds
sunflower seeds
pumpkin seeds
figs
lemons
apples
dark leafy greens
celery
alfalfa sprouts
brown rice
spinach
avocados

SYMPTOMS OF A MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY

Back pain
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Chronic fatigue
Confusion
Cravings for chocolate
Depression
Dizziness
Epilepsy or convulsions
Excessive body odor
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
High blood pressure
Hyperactive or restlessness
Inability to control bladder
Insomnia
Irritability or anxiety
Muscle cramps or muscle tension
Nervous tics or twitches, or muscles that twitch or spasm
Pain in knees or hips
Painful and cold feet or hands
Restless legs, especially at night
Seizures, convulsions, or tremors
Sensitive or loose teeth
PMS or painful periods

Of course, many symptoms overlap with other conditions, so just because you have some of the symptoms above doesn’t necessarily mean you are deficient in magnesium. If you have any health conditions, you should consult a qualified physician. If you suspect a magnesium deficiency, consult a qualified nutritionist for testing.

A typical dose of magnesium is 800 mg. daily and is usually taken with calcium supplements. Supplementing with calcium and not taking magnesium can cause a depletion of the body’s reserves of magnesium.