| Sleep Disturbances ( Part 2)
Magnesium is an essential mineral needed for hundreds of applications in the body. Last edition we saw that Magnesium intake is low in Western diets exposing millions of people to diseases caused by low Magnesium. You can read this at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5786912/.
Low Magnesium can be a cause or contributing factor in both muscle cramp and RLS. Magnesium and calcium are needed for both nerve transmission and muscle contraction. Calcium is needed in the action stage by helping with the transmission of signals between nerves and with muscle contraction.
Magnesium is needed at the relaxation stage of the process. It helps nerves and muscle fibres return to a neutral position. Low Magnesium can cause RLS by preventing nerve endings to return to a neutral position. Adding supplemental Magnesium can help nerves and muscles function normally which can calm nerve and muscle spasms.
The success of Magnesium therapy is based around the types of Magnesium used, the doses and importantly the timing of doses. While adding Magnesium can be very effective for both cramp and RLS, there other factors to consider. Dehydration and low salt and generally low mineral and vitamin intake can worsen both conditions.
Statin medication
Cholesterol lowering (statin) medications are known to cause or worsen muscle and nerve problems. So much so that Statin Myopathy (muscle problems) and Statin Neuropathy (nerve problems) are diagnosable diseases. Those on statins need to be on a specific, personalised supplement programme that includes quality Magnesium, broad spectrum minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and Co enzyme Q10. Abundant Health CoQsol is perfect for this.
The main problem with Magnesium supplements is most a ‘1 a day’ formulas using just one form of Magnesium. This makes specific doses very difficult. I prefer using three forms of Magnesium and doses that reflect individual needs to get the best results.
For people without symptoms, I recommend my Cell eXtra multi-mineral/vitamin/antioxidant complex as it includes Magnesium. If you are symptomatic, I recommend adding my Magnesium Triple.
John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med.) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. If you have questions or need help you can contact John 0800 423559. You can email John at john@abundant.co.nz.
Please note that the health advice given through this column is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health problem. © John Arts 2023 |
