Magnesium chloride, or magnesium, is a mineral that is important to almost all bodily functions, key in maintaining the function of our nerves, cells, bones, muscles, and heart. It plays an integral role in synthesizing energy within cells, creating DNA and supporting bone density.
Most people get enough magnesium in their normal diet, but sometimes supplementation is needed. Foods that are high in fiber generally contain high amounts of magnesium as well. Some of these foods include nuts, dark chocolate, avocados, fatty fish, seeds, and whole grains. Magnesium salts are administered in the case of a magnesium deficiency, with magnesium chloride being one of the most common magnesium salts used medically.
CAUSES OF MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY
Deficiency in magnesium is common in people who over consume alcohol. This is primarily because alcohol encourages your body to pass magnesium through your urinary tract. However, there are other causes of magnesium deficiency, including:
Malabsorption (due to a gastrointestinal disease, or recent surgery)
Age (elderly people are far more likely to be magnesium deficient)
Type 2 diabetes
SYMPTOMS OF MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY
If you’re experiencing one of the below symptoms, you may be deficient in magnesium. They can be broken into three categories – early, moderate, and severe deficiency.
Early signs of a magnesium deficiency include:
Nausea
Unexplained fatigue
Muscle weakness
Loss of appetite
Unexplained vomiting
Signs of a moderate magnesium deficiency include all of the above symptoms, plus:
Abnormalities in the heart rhythm
Tingling
Numbness
Irritability
Muscle contractions
Muscle cramps
Seizures
Signs of a severe magnesium deficiency include all of the above, plus:
Calcium deficiency
Potassium deficiency
A magnesium IV can be particularly effective if you have a compromised gastrointestinal system, whether due to an inflammatory bowel disease or a recent surgery, or if you have allergies to many key dietary sources of magnesium.
Call us at (612) 492-1967 to schedule an appointment with one of our Registered Nurses.
Serving Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester and surrounding areas.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Vitamin supplementation is for wellness only, and not intended to cure or treat disease.