A very underestimated mineral which is extremely crucial for
functional purposes of our body, is the most abundant mineral
inside our body . It is essential to understand how magnesium levels
affect our body. If our body were devoid of magnesium , your
muscles would not be able to function at all and cholesterol levels
would be haywire! Apparently , every single teeny-tiny cell in our
body demands magnesium for its proper functioning.
Deficiency of magnesium affects 2 out of 3 people and unfortunately
still stays undetected in many. For some , the symptoms may be
subtle or severe. Most of the times, magnesium deficiency is
mistaken for some other disease with an incorrect diagnosis. So the
big question – how can you determine the deficiency before it
whirlpools more complications to the body?
Muscle Cramps
Muscle spasms and cramps are one of the primary signs which occur
during magnesium deficiency. The maximum amount of magnesium
is stored in our tissues , hence the immediate side effect is seen as leg
cramps,muscle soreness, back pain or twitches.
• Blood Pressure
Increase in blood pressure or hypertension is another symptom of
the mineral deficiency. Generally , when the sodium intake is
increased , it causes a rise in the blood pressure. Certain people may
present with the same symptom but the underlying cause may be a
lack in magnesium. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood
pressure and also the blood glucose levels. Research proves that
almost 72% women have low blood pressure with ample magnesium
level.
• Insomnia
Magnesium deficiency is one of the leading causes in cases of
sleeplessness. This mineral helps in the functioning of the GABA
receptors present in the brain. GABA receptor is a neurotransmitter
which helps us become calm and peaceful , without it our brains
would be soaring with high stress levels. If insomnia persists, you
ought to get your magnesium levels checked.
• Fatigue
Hypomagnesia results in a chronic fatigue syndrome which makes
the person lethargic and tired even after hours of bed-rest and sleep.
The main source of energy is derived from the cells which contain
ATP (adenosine triphosphate). For the production of ATP energy to
take place , the binding of magnesium ion is prerequisite.
• Weak bones
We all are aware that calcium plays a vital role in the grown and
development of bones. Along with calcium, magnesium is equally
important to bones. It stimulates a hormone known as Calcitonin
which relays calcium from muscles to the bones. It also is important
for calcium absorption to take place which occurs when it combines
with Vitamin D. So any tingling in feet and hands , pain in joints
and weakness recorded point towards magnesium deficiency.
Depression
Anxiety, depression and panic attacks have been linked to low levels
of magnesium. As by now ,you must have figured out that
magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes of the body.
It regulates the central nervous system by producing
neurotransmitters and maintaining the integrity of the BBB (blood
brain barrier). Thus, people with severely magnesium deficiency ,
the brain can be affected to a vast extent and may also cause
confusion, irritability and disorientation.
