Magnesium (Mg)
Magnesium (Mg) is an essential element with both electrolyte and enzyme-activator functions. Body excess of Mg is rare but if Mg levels are high in the hair, the following may occur:
- excess oral or intravenous supplementation
- inefficient absorption and assimilation
- body pH imbalances
- chronic stress, both emotional and physical
- toxic metal or chemical exposure
- imbalances of Ca and phosphorus
- bone mineral depletion
- poor renal clearance
- hypoglycemia
Low Mg levels are common and may indicate a Mg deficiency from low dietary intake. Mg is essential for the activity of more than 80% of the body’s enzymes. Causes of a Mg deficiency include:
- junk food diets
- Mg deficient foods
- malabsorption in the intestines
- low Ca levels
- chemical toxicity
- alcoholism
- prolonged diarrhea
- laxative abuse
- medications
Symptoms of low Mg are:
- muscle twitching
- cramping
- tremors and muscle spasms
- numbness or tingling on the skin
- mental depression