Magnesium deficiency can cause physical and mental health problems, including headaches, fatigue, and anxiety. Causes include alcohol and sugar consumption, diuretics, and prescription drugs. Treatment includes dietary changes, supplements, and herbal remedies, but severe cases may require medical intervention.
Magnesium deficiency is a condition in which there is an insufficient amount of the mineral magnesium in the body to support the proper function of various organs and systems. A lack of magnesium can lead to a wide range of health problems. Sometimes known as the anti-stress mineral, magnesium aids in the absorption of such vitamins and minerals in vitamin C, B vitamins, and calcium, as well as providing health benefits on its own.
There are several common situations that can cause a magnesium deficiency. Excessive consumption of alcohol, coffee, and refined sugar can significantly deplete magnesium levels. Frequent use of diuretics can also cause an individual to become magnesium deficient. Some prescription drugs can cause a deficiency, such as cyclosporine or cisplatin. Ongoing health problems such as mismanaged diabetes are also among the various causes of magnesium deficiency.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include the development of a number of mental and physical problems. Too little magnesium can lead to recurring headaches and an inability to deal with stress. If left unchecked, magnesium deficiency symptoms can progress to include mild depression, anxiety, and a constant feeling of fatigue.
People with magnesium deficiencies are often extremely irritable, nervous, and find it very difficult to concentrate. Other signs of magnesium deficiency can include stiff muscles and a feeling of memory loss. Insomnia can develop over time. Men can experience erectile dysfunction as a result of too little magnesium in the body.
Fortunately, making dietary changes and using nutritional supplements can treat most cases of mild deficiency. Whole grains provide significant amounts of the mineral, as well as unpolished rice. Dark green vegetables, such as turnips, Swiss chard, and kale, are also helpful in maintaining healthy magnesium levels. Berries, avocados, and almonds can also help boost low magnesium levels.
The herbs can also be used to treat a mild magnesium deficiency. Chickweed, eye shine, fennel, and red clover are excellent sources of this mineral. When the deficiency has led to insomnia, the use of valerian skullcap or root will not only help correct the lack of magnesium, but will also help restore a proper sleep cycle. Peach rind and licorice can also be used to make a tea that will help replenish low magnesium levels in the system.
When magnesium deficiency is severe, dietary changes and over-the-counter supplements may not be enough to correct the problem. When that’s the case, doctors may choose to use intravenous or intramuscular treatments to relieve symptoms and replenish the body’s magnesium supply.
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