Pharma gyan Pandit

Magnesium

Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heart beat steady, and helps bones remain strong. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aid in the production of energy and protein.

Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen form the basis of compounds found in all living matter. Beyond compounds built from these four most common elements, the rest of the body’s contents is made up of minerals.

Magnesium is a macro-mineral, which, unlike trace minerals, is needed by the body in large amounts.  Calcium, sodium, and potassium are also macro-minerals.  The average human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium, one of the six essential minerals that must be supplied in the diet.

Once magnesium enters the body through food, supplements, or topical applications, it is broken down and released to form independent magnesium atoms, or “ions”. In its ionic form, magnesium has a positive charge, commonly noted as Mg^2+.

Magnesium cations function as a part of the structure of the body through their presence in bone. But arguably more important is their function as cell regulators in hundreds of chemical reactions throughout the body.

Diet rich in Magnesium:

Dark leafy greens (e.g. spinach), Fish, Beans and peas, Whole grains, Dried fruits and nuts, Avocados, Yogurt.

Deficiency Symptoms: 

magnesium defieciency can occur in conjunction with calcium and potassium deficiency, the latter should be kept in mind while assessing the symptoms. Muscle cramps and spasms, Irregular heart-beats (arrhythmia), Weakness, Seizures, Confusion, Anxiety &Twitching.

Diagnosis:

Magnesium testing should be considered when the levels of calcium and potassium are persistently low, or when there are deficiency symptoms. A test result indicating low magnesium level signifies either inadequate dietary intake or excessive excretion. Therefore, the corresponding diseases impacting these parameters should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis. 

Treatment:

Magnesium supplementation remains the mainstay of treatment. Magnesium salts of oxalate or gluconate can be administered orally. In case of severe deficiency, parenteral route may be considered with regular monitoring.