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November 30, 2012

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 well-being. 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.

Food Sources of Magnesium

Magnesium is found in almonds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, figs, lemons, apples, dark leafy greens, celery, alfalfa sprouts, brown rice, and many other foods.

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

Women: PMS or painful periods

Of course, many symptoms overlap with other conditions so just because you have 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.

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