|
|
Ventura Chiropractic &
Massage
|
|
|
Ventura Chiropractic &
Massage
|
|
Why do I talk so much about magnesium? It is because it is a critical mineral that affects every part of the body. It is so basic to all bodily functions that when a person does not have enough, a wide variety of mild to severe symptoms can occur. Most Americans are getting approximately 200 mg of magnesium from their diet. The RDA (minimal requirement, not optimal) is 300-350 mg/day. Signs that may indicate magnesium insufficiency are; back or neck pain, muscle spasms, headache, panic attacks, tiredness, poor sleep, depression, tension, nervousness, high blood pressure, kidney stones, gall stones, osteoporosis, breast tenderness, PMS, mitral valve prolapse, constipation. A few of the most serious diseases that have been linked to magnesium deficiency are heart disease, diabetes, depression, and osteoporosis. Conditions that are benefited by magnesium: Testing for magnesium has historically been done by measuring magnesium in
the serum (liquid portion of the blood). However, it has been known for years,
and has been published in medical journals that serum magnesium is extremely
inaccurate. Even so, most MDs still order serum testing. Superior tests include: What to do? Check your vitamin and/or mineral supplement. If the magnesium is in the form of magnesium oxide, you are taking a very poorly absorbed form of magnesium. It is extremely cheap to buy and is a very small molecule, which is why many vitamin manufacturers use it. You will need to begin taking a good form of magnesium. Additionally, avoid excessive calcium; eat lots of whole fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains; avoid sodas, coffee, and sweet things. The most effective magnesium I have worked with in the past 10 years is Magnesium Glycinate from Metagenics. I have watched hundreds of patients try other forms of magnesium with little or no success or relief. This simple nutrient has markedly improved the lives of many of my patients. This magnesium is difficult to find. You can purchase it here at our office. Using magnesium glycinate often provides so much relief that it saves a patient a $50.00 office visit. I recommend 400 mg/day of magnesium in the form of magnesium glycinate. Remember, you need more than the RDA. We also now carrying a powdered mineral with magnesium glycinate and a liquid magnesium chloride for those who have trouble swallowing vitamins. When to take magnesium: Magnesium Glycinate is best taken away from food. I suggest that patients take 2 tablets when they wake up in the morning, and 2 when they go to bed. It is fine to take one at a time throughout the day. How to find a good magnesium, wherever you are in the United States: If you are in Ventura, the best magnesium for the best price is here at our office, as far as I know. If you are elsewhere, you may be able to get, at a health food store, the same kind of magnesium that we carry, but under a different brand name. It will be called Magnesium Glycinate by Ethical Nutrients. If you can't find this product, you can buy SlowMag (take 6 per day) at most any pharmacy over-the-counter for $14.00 plus tax. (11/22/06) Epsom salts baths: Epsom salts are the salt of magnesium sulfate. It is best used in a warm to hot bath. Because of the heat, they are not suggested during the first 24-48 hours following acute injuries (sudden onset such as a sprained ankle) in which swelling is present. Epsom salts are highly effective in treating chronic aches and pains, soreness from overuse, and sprains and strains after the acute phase (usually 24-48 hours following injury). Epsom salts can be purchased at large grocery stores and drug stores for $2-3.00 per half gallon. Put ½ gallon of Epsom salts into a hot bath . Soak for 15 minutes. This is not just good for aches and pains. Many people find a soak in Epsom salts very relaxing. It can improve sleep and leaves the skin feeling very soft. If you are using a hot bath for treatment of significant back pain, be sure to get out of bath while the water is still in the tub. The water will buoy you and assist you in getting out of the tub. If you have trouble getting out, you don’t want to be left sitting in a cold and empty tub. It is wise to have another person in the house when you take your bath if you have significant back pain in case you need assistance. Want to read more? Try these links:
|
