Do you feel tired more often than before? Do you have muscle cramps or twitches in your legs? If so, you may be deficient in magnesium. This essential mineral is responsible for many important functions in the body, and a serious magnesium deficiency can lead to health problems. Fortunately, there are several signs that can tell you if you need to increase your magnesium intake. Read on to learn more about the six telltale signs and what you can do to prevent them.
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You have trouble sleeping.
According to a recent study, people with insomnia may have a magnesium deficiency. The study found that magnesium levels were significantly lower in people with insomnia than in those who slept well. Magnesium is a mineral that plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. It is believed that a magnesium deficiency can disrupt the natural rhythm of sleep, leading to difficulty falling asleep and getting good quality sleep.
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You are always tired.
When most people think of magnesium, they imagine it as a relaxant. And it’s true that one of the benefits of magnesium is that it can help relieve muscle tension and promote feelings of calm. However, magnesium is also essential for energy production, and a lack of magnesium can lead to fatigue. Indeed, magnesium plays a role in the body’s production of ATP, the molecule that provides energy to cells. Magnesium deficiencies are relatively common, and symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, and difficulty sleeping. If you’re still tired, it may be worth checking your magnesium levels.
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You have muscle spasms or cramps.
Indeed, magnesium is responsible for muscle relaxation. When the magnesium level is not in the norms, the muscles can be tense and even have spasms. This can lead to pain and discomfort, as well as reduced mobility. In severe cases, magnesium deficiency can even lead to paralysis. It is therefore important to pay attention to the telltale signs of a magnesium deficiency and ensure that its rate is always within the norms.
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You are anxious or irritable.
Almost everyone experiences anxiety or irritability from time to time, but for some people these feelings are more persistent. If you feel on edge or easily agitated, it could be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is an essential mineral in the relaxation of muscles, the regulation of stress hormones and the transmission of nerve impulses. Without sufficient magnesium, nerves can be overstimulated, causing feelings of anxiety or irritability. Additionally, magnesium plays a role in the production of serotonin, a hormone responsible for mood regulation. A lack of magnesium can therefore lead to imbalances in serotonin levels, which can contribute to feelings of depression or anxiety.
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You suffer from acute headaches or migraines.
While headaches and migraines can have a variety of causes, research suggests that magnesium deficiency could be a factor. In one study, participants with migraines had lower magnesium levels. After taking magnesium supplements for eight weeks, they reported a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their headaches.
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You have difficulty maintaining regular bowel movements.
Indeed, magnesium is necessary for muscle contractions, and the muscles of the intestinal walls depend on magnesium to create the peristaltic waves that move food through the digestive system. Without enough magnesium, these contractions become weak and irregular, leading to constipation. Additionally, a magnesium deficiency can also cause gas, abdominal pain, and bloating. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether a magnesium supplement might be right for you.
How to increase your magnesium intake?
Spinach, kale, black beans, lentils, quinoa, bulgur wheat, almonds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, cashews, peanuts, dark chocolate, anchovies, prawns, sardines, mackerel, brown rice, chestnuts, bananas, avocados, …
Supplements come in the form of liquids, tablets, powders, and capsules. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking any supplements as they may interact with certain medications. With a little effort, it is easy to ensure that the body receives enough magnesium.
