You may think you have learned the most about Magnesium in your chemistry class, but you will be surprised to know there is a lot more. The mineral magnesium has several health benefits for seniors–if consumed correctly, most of them do not. According to a survey, half of the US adults do not get enough. About 70% of seniors are magnesium deficient. Therefore, it is important to hire a caregiver by contacting personal health care in Philadelphia for your loved one.
Why does the mineral “Magnesium” is an essential nutrient for seniors?
Magnesium is essential for blood sugar levels, nerves, and blood pressure. It helps make protein, DNA, and bone. A male requires 400-420 milligrams, and a female needs 310-320 milligrams daily.
Low magnesium levels can cause conditions like:
- Type 2 Diabetes– Magnesium helps in regulating insulin activity and blood sugar.
- Heart disease– Some studies indicate magnesium reduces the risk of heart disorder.
- Osteoporosis– People with higher magnesium intake have high bone mineral density, which is vital for reducing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures.
- Migraine headaches– Some studies depicted that individuals with migraine headaches have lower magnesium levels in their blood and tissues.
Even though magnesium deficiency symptoms are not obvious every time, the symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, appetite, and weakness. Excessive magnesium deficiency can cause tingling, seizures, personality changes, numbness, muscle cramps, and an abnormal heart rhythm.
Foods containing magnesium
A healthy diet is a must to achieve a proper level of magnesium. Food sources include whole bread, milk, soymilk, seeds, brown rice, fresh fruits, leafy green vegetable, and processed foods like cereal. It is a good practice to go through processed food labels to determine if the mineral is added.
How much magnesium is adequate?
Our kidneys eliminate magnesium that we do not need through urine. But, toxicity is possible if magnesium supplements are added to your daily routine. Symptoms of toxicity are:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Muscle weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Depression
Taking magnesium in dietary supplements is recommended only if the physician has told you to. It should not be engulfed in amounts more than the limit recommended. Medications that may interfere with this supplement include antibiotics, prescribed medications for peptic ulcers, acid reflux, zinc supplements, etc.
Learning something new is always good when the stuff makes us healthier. When you visit the grocery store next time, add colorful fresh vegetables and fruits.
