How Does the Body Get Magnesium Deficiency?
Every cell in the body needs the mineral magnesium in order for the body to function the way it should. Magnesium plays a key role in cellular metabolism, helping the body maintain normal muscle and nerve function. Although more than half of the body’s supply of magnesium is stored in the bones, some of the mineral accumulates in the body’s tissues. Only about one percent of the body’s supply of magnesium is found in the blood, so the mineral must be consumed on a daily basis. Deficiency can cause loss of appetite, confusion, muscle cramps, seizures, irregular heartbeat and tremors, along with a host of other symptoms. While the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies according to a person’s gender and age, the average is 400 milligrams. Pregnant women need more.
