Despite being essential for more than 300 bodily processes, magnesium is a commonly lacked nutrient. Believe it or not, statistics shows that around 80 percent of the American population is magnesium deficient. Unfortunately, this nutrient deficiency causes a lot of unpleasant symptom so it is vital to treat it timely. Continue reading the article to learn more about the major functions that magnesium performs in the body…
The Major Roles of Magnesium in the Body
- Activation of the muscles and nerves
- Providing energy for the body through the activation of ATP
- A building block for the synthesis of DNA and RNA
- A vital precursor for serotonin and other important neurotransmitters
- Enhances the digestion of protein, carb, and fat
- Essential for the cardiovascular health
Magnesium Deficiencies on the Rise
Despite higher availability of different types of foods rich in magnesium today, people are frequently diagnosed with magnesium deficiency. So, why is this happening? Experts believe that this has to do with the depletion of magnesium from the soil caused by modern farming techniques. Namely, some hundred years ago, the average individual acquired around 500 mg of magnesium through their diet whereas today, this number has dropped to 200 mg.
As a result; a lot of us need to resort to magnesium supplementation to reach the recommended daily amount. In order to help you recognise timely if you are lacking magnesium, we will share the 5 major symptoms that must never be ignored. If you happen to notice them, consult your physician to discuss supplementation and elevate your intake of foods rich in this vital mineral.
5 Main Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency
- Tiredness and weak muscles
Fatigue is a condition manifested by mental and physical weakness that happens chronically may be an indicator of magnesium deficiency. Though the occasional tiredness is common in everyone and usually goes away with sleep and rest, severe tiredness may signalize a health problem that needs to be addressed. Muscle weakness may also happen in magnesium-deficient individuals. This is believed to be a result of the decrease of potassium in the muscle cells, a condition linked to magnesium deficiency.
2. Twitches and cramps
Cramps, twitches or tremors in the muscles may happen due to insufficient magnesium. In severe cases, the deficiency may even trigger seizures. This is believed to happen because of the increase in calcium flow in the nerve cells, which hyperstimulates the muscle nerves.
3. Osteoporosis
This health problem is manifested by weak bones and higher risk of bone fractures. The main contributing factors to osteoporosis include poor exercise, low levels of vitamins D and K, and magnesium deficiency. Lack of magnesium directly weakens the bones and minimizes the calcium levels and calcium is a main building block of the bones.
4. Hypertension
Lack of magnesium may elevate the blood pressure and contribute to hypertension, a major risk factor of heart illness. Magnesium supplements may be of aid in decreasing the blood pressure and consequently, minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5. Irregular heartbeat
Also known as arrhythmia, this health problem may be caused by insufficient levels of magnesium in the body. Some individuals may experience heart palpitations. Other accompanying symptoms of arrhythmia are shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and pain in the chest. This is considered to be a consequence of the potassium imbalance outside and inside of the heart muscle cells, a condition linked to magnesium deficiency.
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