Signs and symptoms of magnesium deficiency

So, how do you actually know if you have a magnesium deficiency?
These are some of the signs and symptoms that may be related to magnesium deficiency:
- Muscle cramps
- Twitching
- Charlie horses (intense cramping of the calf muscles)
- Tight and stiff muscles
- Reduced range of motion
- Low bone density (osteoporosis, osteopenia)
- Chronic pain
Here’s what you need to know about magnesium deficiency and why it’s so important for your health:
- Up to 90% of North Americans may be deficient in this important mineral.
- Magnesium is depleted in our soils so it is hard to get from food sources.
- Magnesium is used in over 800+ functions in our bodies.
- Without magnesium, your muscles cannot relax.
- Stress and exercise will deplete magnesium faster.
- Alcohol, certain medications, and supplements may reduce magnesium or interfere with absorption
- Gut disorders, food sensitivities, or allergies may reduce magnesium absorption
Here are some foods that contain magnesium:
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, sunflower seeds, cashews, brazil nuts, etc.)
- Raw cacao powder
- Dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, swiss chard
- Legumes (ie. peas, soy, lentils, etc.)
Source: https://www.dietitians.ca/Downloads/Factsheets/Food-Sources-of-Magnesium.aspx
Here are some other ways that you can get magnesium on top of food since food sources alone may not be enough:
- Epsom salts bath
- Magnesium oils or lotions
- High quality professional supplements from your licensed healthcare practitioner
If you are experiencing some of the signs and symptoms of magnesium deficiency, speak to your healthcare practitioner today to find out what is best for you.
Never make any changes to your health without speaking to your healthcare practitioner first. Never start a supplement without consulting your healthcare practitioner. There may be interactions with some supplements or medications. Please read the disclaimer.