If you are someone who prioritizes their health and vitamin and mineral intake, you have come to the right place. Although it is rare, it is possible for a person to have decreased magnesium intake and, as a result, low magnesium levels. But what contributes to this situation and is there a way to prevent it from becoming severe? In this article, we will delve into the topic of low magnesium levels and how to fix them.
Why do we need magnesium?
In order for your body to function optimally, it is important to ensure that it is filled with a variety of nutrients. One of those nutrients is magnesium. This essential mineral can be found both in the earth's crust and in the human body. It plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system, maintaining strong bones and muscles, and regulating blood sugar and blood pressure levels. However, since there is no way to guarantee that magnesium levels will remain constant in the body, it is important to consume fresh produce and supplements to maintain normal levels.
Why would your magnesium levels drop?
Depriving your body of nutrients can take a significant amount of time and effort. This is also the case with magnesium - it is unlikely for someone to neglect their health and body for such an extended period of time. However, in some cases, magnesium deficiency can occur. The most common reason for this is not keeping up with the recommended daily intake of magnesium. This can easily be fixed by increasing your daily dosage, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
Why is your magnesium low?
Experiencing low levels of magnesium is not something that happens very often, meaning it is a very rare case. It can happen in the case of consuming too much alcohol, taking some specific medication that can coincide with the absorption of magnesium, dealing with kidney disease, having celiac disease, or you are experiencing some digestive issues that have lasted for some time now.
Still, there are several reasons why your levels are low. So, we have compiled a small list for you to check; if you can recognize any of the causes, then it might be time to contact your physician and consult on this subject. The causes are:
- Issues with your kidneys
- Type 2 diabetes
- A poor diet, especially if you are a part of the elderly group
- Severe digestive issues
- Using diuretics for a longer period
- Diarrhea and vomiting that is constant
- If you have taken some medicine such as something for ulcers and acid reflux for a longer period
- Constant consumption of alcohol
How do you know if your magnesium levels are low?
There are several signs that may indicate low levels of magnesium in the body. It is important to note that low levels of magnesium are not common in healthy individuals. The kidneys regulate magnesium levels, increasing or decreasing excretion as needed.
To determine if you have low magnesium levels, start by evaluating your diet and supplement regimen. Are you consuming enough nutrient-dense foods and taking your supplements daily? If not, further exploration of symptoms may be necessary.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include:
- Decreased appetite and vomiting
- Nausea
- General weakness
As the deficiency progresses, symptoms may become more severe and include:
- Cramps, numbness, and tingling in muscles
- Changes in personality and sleep disturbances
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Seizures
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for testing and the next steps.
Maintaining overall health is crucial, and a key component of this is adequate magnesium intake. Incorporating fresh produce and other nutrient-dense foods into your diet is an effective way to ensure you are getting all the necessary nutrients. Prioritize your health and you will have nothing to worry about.
If you have experience with low magnesium levels, please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.
