Magnesium
Magnesium is another mineral which is absolutely essential for the correct functioning of the human body. It is required for normal hormonal activity, the repair of cells, it also helps prevent kidney and gallstones and has proved useful in the treatment of high blood pressure.
Magnesium deficiency is very common, particularly with the elderly, heavy drinkers, pregnant women and strenuous exercisers. It has been proved that even a small deficiency can cause a disruption of the heartbeat.
Good natural sources of Magnesium are brown rice, soybeans, whole wheat flour, nuts and legumes.
Some of the symptoms of a deficiency of Magnesium are:
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Unsteadiness
- Low blood sugar
- Palpitations
- Nervous convulsions
Intake of someone eating a balanced diet is thought to be sufficient however where a deficiency is thought to exist then supplements are to be recommended. Magnesium is toxic to people suffering renal problems or atrioventricular blocks (or AV block), other than these it should be considered safe.
