Even though less than 2% of all Americans are estimated to suffer from magnesium deficiency, or hypomagnesemia, statistics estimate that roughly 75 percent of individuals are not consuming even the recommended daily intake of magnesium. One of the worst parts of magnesium deficiency is that most of the common warning signs do not appear until magnesium levels become extremely low. Some of the most common health problems associated with this deficiency include diabetes, celiac disease, and much more. Common signs and symptoms of magnesium deficiency include the following:
1. Muscle twitching
A lot of us experience muscle twitching in our day-to-day lives. Though it can sometimes just be a sign of a caffeine rush, one of the very first signs of magnesium deficiency is frequent twitching of muscles, as well as muscle cramps. You should definitely get your magnesium levels checked if this symptom occurs, along with any other signs or symptoms.
2. Mental disorders
Mental disorders are considered to be a major consequence of magnesium deficiency, as it can cause nervous dysfunction. The most common mental signs that you may see include apathy, lack of emotion, and even mental numbness.
3. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that commonly affects women across the globe. It is mainly characterized by weak bones and even bone fractures. The risk of developing this disorder is highly influenced by old age, poor intake of Vitamin D and Vitamin K, as well as lack of physical activity. The risk of being affected by osteoporosis increases significantly when one has a magnesium deficiency.
4. Fatigue and weakness in the muscles
In most cases becoming fatigued simply means that you need to rest, however, in some cases fatigue may indicate a magnesium deficiency. Fatigue may often be accompanied by myasthenia or muscle weakness. The main reason behind this is the loss of potassium cells, which is a condition associated with magnesium deficiency.
5. High blood pressure
Magnesium deficiency also increases blood pressure and puts you at a much higher risk of getting heart disease. Some studies and reviews have also revealed that proper magnesium supplements will help reduce blood pressure. However, medical research to confirm these findings is still ongoing.
6. Asthma
It has been observed that people suffering from magnesium deficiency may also be severely affected by asthma, as magnesium levels are much lower in asthma patients as compared to others. Magnesium deficiency can also make airways more likely to be constricted, making breathing extremely difficult. Hence, patients with asthma need to keep a close eye on their magnesium levels.
