Magnesium is an element that helps maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, sleep and regulates the heartbeat. It also plays a pivotal role in keeping the bones healthy as well.
The human body contains around 25 g of magnesium with 90% of total body magnesium being contained in the muscles and bones. The deficiency of magnesium develops when the blood magnesium level drops to less than 0.75 mmol/L.
Inadequate dietary intake and poor absorption due to gastrointestinal diseases are the most common causes of magnesium deficiency. The other risk factors involve a positive family history, type 2 diabetes, chronic alcoholism, and use of certain medications.
Daily consumption of foods rich in magnesium such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, spinach, pumpkin seeds, yogurt are the best way to prevent magnesium deficiency. Treatment includes magnesium supplementation. Severe magnesium deficiency might require hospitalization.
