Is there a low magnesium epidemic?

With the current buzz around magnesium supplements it implies that we are all short of magnesium.  But are we?

First it is important that you are aware there is currently no test to determine your magnesium levels that is cost effective or well validated.   Even clinical manifestations of magnesium deficiency are difficult to define due to magnesiums many roles in our body.  Despite this amoung researchers, magnesium defficiency is known as the silent epidemic of our times.  At first glance this seems a paradox how can people be low in magnesium if you can’t measure it?

The answer appears to be lifestyle and diet.   Less than 30% of U.S adults comsume the recomended daily allowance (RDA) of magnesium.  And nearly 20% get only half of the magnesium they need daily to remain healthy.

So what are the symptoms of poor magnesium intake:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Facial ticks
  • Poor sleep
  • Chronic pain

References

Combs GF, Nielsen FH. Health significance of calcium and magnesium: Examples from human studies. In: World Health Organization. Calcium and Magnesium in Drinking Water: Public health significance. Geneva: World Health Organization Press; 2009.

Pao EM, Mickle SJ. Problem nutrients in the United States. Food Technology. 1981:35:58-79.

King DE, Mainous AG 3rd, Geesey ME, Woolson RF. Dietary magnesium and C-reactive protein levels. Journal Of The American College Of Nutrition. 2005 Jun;24(3):166-71. Available from: MEDLINE with Full Text, Ipswich, MA. Accessed November 6, 2009.

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