Magnesium deficiency is getting more common, affecting millions of people in Singapore. It is the second most abundant mineral inside our cells, with about 50-60% of the body’s Magnesium is found in bones and teeth and the rest in muscle cells and body fluids. As an important minerals in our body, it carries out over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body. Muscle building, healthy nerve function, keeping a regular heartbeat and sustaining optimal immune system function all require magnesium.
Due to the ever growing dependence on processed food, Magnesium deficiency is reaching an alarming statistics. Dark leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains, all of which take their Magnesium from the soil. In addition, ongoing soil erosion continues to deplete this mineral in the soil over the past century. Consequently, many fruits and vegetables that were once rich in magnesium no longer contain it in adequate amounts.
The modern diet contains Calcium and Magnesium in the ratio of between 5:1 and 15: 1 compared to the “cave man” diet of 1:1. Constipation and muscle spasm may be due to the high ratio of calcium over magnesium. Furthermore, excessive calcium can lead to kidney stones, arteriosclerosis, dementia, asthma and suboptimal glucose uptake. Magnesium deficiency should not be ignored since it involves so many necessary biochemical action in the body. Recently scientists have discovered the levels of Magnesium in the body may epi-genetically alter the expression and behavior of some of the proteins in our bodies, so altering the expression of health or disease of tissues. Therefore it is important to know if you are deficient in this essential mineral.
Some of the symptoms commonly associated with Magnesium deficiency.
Example:
- Loss of appetite
- Headache / Migraine
- Unable to think clearly
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Abnormal heart rhythms, palpitations
- Muscle cramps or contractions
- Fibromyalgia
- Numbness and tingling
So, if you experience any of these symptoms you should call for a consultation, to understand how can we reverse your deficiency in Magnesium.
Tags Magnesium
Dr Chew Wei Lun
D.C., CFMP®, Certified CBP®
