This a condition that is very common in America. Refined foods and quick foods are all lacking in magnesium. The test that checks magnesium levels is a blood test for magnesium. It is not common knowledge in the medical community that a normal reading on this test may not be accurate. Less than one percent of all magnesium is in the blood and therefore may NOT reflect the cellular and bone concentrations of magnesium.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include, muscle cramps ( restless leg), retention of fluids, it may cause a increase in migraine headaches, insomnia, personality changes, lethargy, confusion, heart irregularities, memory problems, hormonal problems, it may prevent kidney stones, headache and anxiety. Magnesium is the fourth most common element in the body and is essential to cell metabolism and utilization of vitamins. It is in leafy green vegetables, nuts and well water.
Suggestions. When you cook vegetables do not throw out the water they are cooked in. Have a handful of nuts everyday. Take a magnesium supplement, but not magnesium oxide. Magnesium oxide is a laxative and relatively ineffective in treating magnesium deficiency.
Caveat. Magnesium may cause diarrhea so I suggest you increase your dose over a week. Magnesium should not be taken by those who have kidney insufficiency. Bladder problems are not a problem as the bladder is reservoir for urine and not important in utilization of magnesium. Those with atrial fibrillation and on a blood thinner should consult a doctor before taking this element. By taking vitamin D the magnesium level drops because the hormone produced from vitamin D uses magnesium. So taking vitamin lowers magnesium levels without added supplementation. The 24 hour acid blockers reduce body magnesium. Just a fact.
I suggest magnesium malate as this is helpful with muscle cramps etc. Magnesium citrate is another valuable supplement that many take. Magnesium has made a significant difference in my life.
BB