The below groups are at a higher risk for magnesium deficiency:
Poor Diets: Such as those consume a high intake of processed foods (baked or packaged): The more processed foods you eat in your diet, the more likely you are deficient in magnesium and other vital nutrients. Replace these foods with a healthy alternative such as fruit, nuts, seeds and vegetables.
Stress or Illness: Both physical and emotional stress can be a cause of magnesium deficiency including those recovering from surgery or burns or those with liver disease, diabetes, and hormone imbalance. These conditions not only increase the body’s need for magnesium but also may reduce stomach acid levels, which reduces the body’s ability to break down foods and supplements into an absorbable form.
Drinking Caffeinated Beverages: If you drink caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and soft drinks regularly, your risk for magnesium deficiency is increased. Caffeine stimulates the kidneys and intestines and causes your body to eliminate magnesium.
Heavy Alcohol Use: People who drink heavily tend to have poor diets and may not get the foods they need to meet their magnesium requirements. Alcohol also negatively affects digestion and the use and storage of nutrients.
Medication Use: Do you take regular medications or medications or diuretics? The effects of certain drugs have been shown to reduce magnesium levels in the body.
Older Adults: Older adults are more vulnerable to lower levels of magnesium in the body as the natural process of aging reduces stomach acid levels and is associated with reduced absorption of magnesium. Older adults are also more likely to take medications.
Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency -
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency may include:
- Fatigue or sleep problems
- Poor nail growth
- Stomach upsets such as nausea and vomiting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Irritability, agitation, anxiety or confusion
- Muscle spasms, weakness or twitches
- Seizures
- Personality changes
- Restless leg syndrome
Remember: It is important to ensure you are getting enough magnesium in your daily diet before signs of deficiency occur. If you are experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms, see your doctor for a health evaluation.
Tip: Eat a healthy well-balanced diet and limit alcohol, soft drinks and processed foods and replace with healthier alternatives.
Testing and Treatment -
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