Jul 2, 2024
Why Magnesium Matters: Benefits, Deficiency & Testing
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What is Magnesium?
Magnesium has numerous functions in the human body and is required for more than 300 enzymatic reactions.Having optimal magnesium levels has been shown to have beneficial effects in various health conditions including diabetes, osteoporosis, bronchial asthma, preeclampsia, migraine, and cardiovascular diseases.
What does it assess?
Assessing magnesium levels helps evaluate whether you have sufficient magnesium for critical functions, as both high and low levels can lead to various health issues.Blood tests generally measure serum magnesium, though red blood cell magnesium (Magnesium, RBC) tests can sometimes offer a better picture of intracellular magnesium stores.Magnesium levels are essential for assessing metabolic and cardiovascular health, and optimal levels can be maintained through diet and lifestyle adjustments.
How do I optimize my Magnesium levels?
Consuming magnesium-rich foods is one of the most effective ways to improve magnesium levels.Foods like leafy greens, nuts and seeds, whole grains, and legumes are excellent sources. Aim to include these foods regularly in your diet to maintain adequate magnesium. Excessive alcohol and caffeine can increase magnesium loss through urine, depleting magnesium stores.Moderating alcohol and caffeine intake can help preserve magnesium levels and improve absorption. Chronic stress can deplete magnesium levels, as the body uses more magnesium during stress responses.Stress management practices like meditation, regular physical activity, and deep breathing exercises can help maintain magnesium stores and support general well-being.
What do high and low Magnesium levels mean?
Elevated magnesium is less common but can occur in individuals with impaired kidney function, as the kidneys regulate magnesium excretion.Symptoms of high magnesium may include nausea, lethargy, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias.Low magnesium levels can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, irregular heartbeats, and even seizures in severe cases.Low levels often result from poor dietary intake, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic conditions such as diabetes.
