Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency in Children

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency in Children
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Magnesium is a significant constituent of osseous, muscle and other tissue. Furthermore, it's acts as a cofactor for enzymatic processes, regulates uptake and synthesis of other nutrients and contributes to metabolism. Magnesium appears in a variety of foods, but mostly in whole grains, green leafy vegetables and nuts. It is typical to ingest less than the recommended amount of magnesium, but deficiencies are rare.

Migraines, Restless Leg Syndrome and Agitation

Magnesium deficiencies can result in migraine headaches, avers the University of Maryland Medical Center. Other mild symptoms of a magnesium deficiency in children are restless leg syndrome, agitation, confusion, anxiety, weakness, hyperventilation, poor nail growth, insomnia, muscle spasms, low blood pressure, nausea and vomiting.

High Blood Pressure

Magnesium deficiencies can cause high blood pressure, or hypertension, states the Linus Pauling Institute. Furthermore, much evidence exists that magnesium deficiencies can cause ADD and ADHD in children. Extended magnesium deficiencies in children can cause osteoporosis later in life.

Serious Problems

Low magnesium is a predictor of asthma in children, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Intravenous magnesium can also treat severe asthma attacks, although magnesium cannot prevent attacks from a preexisting condition. Children who maintain a diet that does not contain enough magnesium are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well. The cardiovascular system is dependent on magnesium and deficiencies can result in irregular heartbeats that can lead to cardiac arrest. Moreover, magnesium deficiencies can result in seizures and renal failure.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Nov 1, 2010

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