Who Is Susceptible to Magnesium Deficiency?
About 60 percent of Americans might be deficient in magnesium—a trace mineral needed for 300 different metabolic processes—according to Shari Lieberman, Ph.D., and Nancy Bruning, authors of “The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book.”Severe DeficiencyThose most at risk for a severe magnesium deficiency are diabetics and alcoholics, say Lieberman and Bruning, because of diets lacking in nutrient-rich foods and excreting a high amount of magnesium in their urine.At RiskAt-risk groups for magnesium deficiency include pregnant women, those using specific medications (diuretics, antibiotics, oral contraceptives and cancer drugs), people with malabsorption issues, older adults and the malnourished.Gastrointestinal DisordersCrohn’s disease or other conditions that cause vomiting or diarrhea, including bulimia, boost your risk of magnesium deficiency, and may need to supplement your diet.StressPeople experiencing tremendous stress deplete themselves of magnesium, which is necessary for muscle relaxa
