A study published by PharmacyTimes.com in July of 2020 found that half of all Americans are not getting the recommended daily Magnesium amount. These statistics could mean you. If you happen to be Magnesium deficient then you will most likely be Vitamin D deficient also. Magnesium is a critical cofactor in the absorption of Vitamin D. Vitamin D synthesis is highly reliant on Magnesium. Truth be told, Magnesium is foundational to your body’s health. So how do you find out if your Magnesium is low? Besides a myriad of symptoms as telltale signs of low Magnesium, you can request a serum Magnesium test. A serum Magnesium blood test is performed to determine your Magnesium level. It is pretty basic to do and the information can be life-improving. Take action to remedy the symptoms once discovering that your Magnesium is low.
Symptoms To Look For
Symptoms of being deficient in Magnesium can present itself in several ways. The most common symptoms are fatigue, muscle aches, twitches, migraine headaches, constipation, apathy, increased risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and over time weakening bones and heart arrhythmias. The severity of any of these symptoms can be directly related to how severe the deficiency is and how long it has been taking its toll. Low magnesium levels can affect the ability to think and remember. Many of these symptoms are pretty common and can also be symptoms from other health issues. The best way to determine if your symptoms are related to Hypomagnesemia, the clinical name for this condition, is a blood test.
Sources of Magnesium
Address low magnesium levels simply by increasing your intake of this mineral. Biochemical reactions throughout your body highly depend on Magnesium for optimal cell function. Combinations of the minerals calcium and Vitamin D along with Magnesium are very beneficial to your daily intake. They boost each other’s uptake. In addition to over-the-counter supplements, foods are a great natural source of Magnesium. Easily add or increase these rich Magnesium foods in your diet.
- Dark Chocolate
- Nuts
- Whole Grains
- Leafy Greens
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Legumes
Food should always be the first way to obtain your nutritional needs. Your body can absorb vitamins and minerals quicker from food than from supplements. Dr. Berg has this very informative video about Magnesium. Click here to watch: https://youtu.be/1ujevUNrlSM.
Types of Magnesium
Unbeknownst to me until just prior to writing this article is the fact that there are many different types of Magnesium. Utilize each type for different symptoms and applications. Here is a simplified break down of the different types of Magnesium. You can choose a specific type to remedy a specific symptom.
- Magnesium Sulfate- Combining Sulfur and Oxygen (Epsom Salts) to aid in muscle soreness, relieve stress, and if taken orally, relieve constipation. Lotions and creams are formulated with this.
- Magnesium Citrate-Bound with Citric Acid and used to improve digestion and constipation
- Magnesium-L-Threonate- Combination of a Threonic Acid, a breakdown of Vitamin C, to specifically aid brain cells
- Magnesium Glycinate- Combines the Amino Acid Glycine with elemental Magnesium to reduces muscle pain and help sleep
- Magnesium-Oxide-Is a salt that combines oxygen and Magnesium to treat migraines, heartburn, and constipation
- Magnesium-Chloride-Binds the unstable element of Chlorine with Magnesium into lotions and creams for skin Issues
- Magnesium-Lactate-Is the finished salt product of combining Magnesium with Latic Acid into a gentler form used as a food additive and to treat stress and anxiety
- Magnesium-Malate- Bound with Malic Acid, well absorbed, used occasionally to treat Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
- Magnesium-Orotate-Combines Orotic Acid, a natural ingredient found in our body’s genetic constructing material like DNA, to strengthen heart and blood vessels. Mostly utilized by those with heart disease and competitive sports. This also is used to treat too much stomach acid and heartburn.
Summary
There are many types of Magnesium to ease Hypomagnesemia symptoms. Low Magnesium is the deficiency most adults in the U. S. have second only to deficiency in Potassium. It wouldn’t hurt to get your level checked or at least spruce up your intake of Magnesium on your own. Consuming Magnesium enriched foods is most beneficial. Finding a supplement with the type of Magnesium that best suits your symptoms is another acceptable option. If you are unsure of which type to take, consult your general physician or nutritionist. Could your Magnesium be low? Quite possibly it is! But now you know what can be done to remedy the situation and stay healthy.
Disclaimer
I am not a medical professional. This information is not meant to diagnose or present a cure but for educational purposes only. It is the sole opinion of the facts researched by the author. It is my best advice to consult with a physician, medical professional, or healthcare provider if seeking medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment as this blog post is not a substitute for either.
Very informative and helpful in being in the know. Great tips as always.