Q: Is magnesium related to fatigue and mood symptoms?
A: The data on taking a magnesium supplement for fatigue and mood symptoms is underwhelming. Magnesium supplementation is not warrantable in many circumstances, making it difficult for a doctor to unconditionally approve it. Instead, try incorporating more magnesium-rich foods into your diet to naturally reap the health benefits.
What does magnesium do for the body?
Magnesium is an essential ion found in every body cell. It plays a crucial role in several cellular functions, including metabolism, transportation across cell membranes, and hormone binding.
Can I take a daily magnesium supplement if I’m healthy?
Taking low levels of magnesium—less than 350 mg daily—is unlikely to cause any harm to relatively healthy people, unless they have kidney disease. However, it may not provide much benefit either. It’s important to consult with a physician before starting magnesium supplementation.
What are magnesium supplements good for?
Magnesium supplements are beneficial for mild constipation, treatment of preeclampsia and certain critical cardiac arrhythmias in the hospital, and possibly for migraines and mood disorders. However, there isn’t enough evidence to support their use for high blood sugar, high blood pressure, insomnia, leg cramps, and dementia.
What foods are highest in magnesium?
Many Americans do not meet the estimated dietary requirements for magnesium. Foods rich in this mineral include leafy greens, seeds and nuts, dark chocolate, avocados, fatty fish, legumes, and whole grains.
What are the signs that my magnesium is low?
Critically low magnesium levels in the blood can lead to serious complications. Various conditions and medications are linked to magnesium deficiencies, making supplementation necessary in certain cases.
What I want my patients to know
Small changes in your diet can naturally increase your magnesium intake. Incorporating more magnesium-rich foods is better than relying on supplements alone.
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