All of the organs in your child's body are dependent on a mineral called magnesium. This is especially true when it comes to his heart, muscles and kidneys. Green leafy vegetables, certain legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains are also good sources of magnesium. This mineral is an important structural component of teeth and bones; it activates enzymes and regulates calcium, copper, potassium, vitamin D and other important nutrients in the body. This mineral may also treat and prevent pediatric diseases and disorders. Using magnesium supplements without the approval of your child's doctor can be detrimental, so do not give supplements without consulting with your child's physician first.
High Blood Pressure
One of the treatments of childhood high blood pressure is to eat a diet that includes low fat dairy products, as well as fruits and vegetables, on a regular basis. These foods are rich in magnesium as well as calcium and potassium. The magnesium helps to regulate blood-pressure because it is used in the production of Prostaglandin E1, which is a powerful vasodilator. A vasodilator causes your blood vessels to relax and widen, which allows for easier blood flow and results in a lower blood pressure.
Asthma
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, children between the ages of 6 and 18 years old, have been shown to benefit from intravenous magnesium and magnesium inhaled through a nebulizer during acute asthma attacks due to it's bronchodilating effect. Having a low level of magnesium increases the amount of histamine released into the blood, which contributes to asthma attacks, but there is no evidence that taking magnesium orally helps control asthma symptoms.
Diabetes
Most children who have type 2 diabetes have deficient levels of magnesium. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a clinical study of over 2000 people found that consuming more magnesium in the diet may help protect against developing type 2 diabetes. Magnesium regulates blood sugar levels in the body, so it may help control blood sugar and insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes or people who are at risk of developing diabetes.
Arrhythmia and Heart Failure
Because magnesium is a vasodilator, it is important for heart health and maintains a normal heart rhythm in your child. The mineral may be administered intravenously to reduce the chance of atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia. If your child has congestive heart failure, she is at risk for developing an irregular heart beat. Your doctor may decide that magnesium should be a part of her treatment; however, talk to your doctor before giving her magnesium supplements.
Migraine Headache
Taking magnesium supplements, under medical supervision, helps prevent migraine headaches due to being a vasodilator, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Magnesium supplements may shorten the duration of a migraine and reduce the amount of pain medication a child may take during a migraine.
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