Magnesium is an essential macro-mineral, and an integral part of a healthy diet. It is involved as a co-enzyme in over 300 metabolic interactions, ranging from fatty acid synthesis, and protein synthesis. Magnesium is also involved in transmitting nerve impulses.
Overall, the body stores 25 grams of magnesium:
- ~50% is stored in the skeletal system.
- ~25% is stored in muscle.
- ~25% is stored in soft tissues, and bodily fluids.
Magnesium deficiency made be due to simply not consuming enough food with magnesium, or it may be due to impaired absorption due to issues with renal conservation or GI absorption. Taking certain medications such as proton pump inhibitors or diuretics may also affect the magnesium systemic levels.
What does it do?
Where can I find it?
What are defiency symptoms?
Magnesium deficiency, or hypomagnesaemia, is often misdiagnosed. Symptoms can range from general body aches, muscles spasms, indigestion, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Normal magnesium levels are between 1.46–2.68 mg/dL. Hypomagnesaemia is categorized if levels fall below 1.46 mg/dL. Hypomagnesaemia is often co-occurring with other electrolyte disorders, such as hypokalemia and hypocalcaemia– exuberating symptoms. Patients with chronic alcoholism or malnutrition may be more prone to hypomagnesaemia due to inadequate intake and excessive renal excretion.
How much do I need?
