Asthma is a respiratory illness which affects children and adults alike. Over 34 million Americans are affected by this condition and an estimated 100 millions people will be diagnosed with asthma by 2025, according to American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. Other conditions frequently associated with asthma include allergies and eczema. Magnesium-based supplements may be proposed as an adjuvant therapy for individuals suffering from asthma.
Sources
Magnesium is an essential mineral found predominantly in the bones as well as in other tissues and organs. Important dietary sources of magnesium include meat, fish, seafood, diary products, beans, peas and whole grains. Spinach and other green vegetables are rich in this nutrient. Fruits such as bananas, apricots, peaches, figs, lemon and grapefruit also contain magnesium. Supplements based on magnesium are available over-the-counter in various dosages.
Importance
Magnesium serves as a catalyst in many enzymatic activities that result in energy production. Magnesium works closely with potassium, calcium and B vitamins and is responsible for optimal function of nerves and muscles. Magnesium plays a role in normal heart function, may help regulate blood pressure and may improve symptoms of asthma.
According to National Institutes of Health, many Americans do not get adequate amounts of magnesium from diet. Some medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease or diarrhea and certain conventional drugs, may cause a shortage of magnesium in the body. Signs of magnesium deficiency include digestive symptoms, neurological changes and cardio-respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing and irregular heartbeats.
Research
A study authored by K.A. Nelson published in the April 2010 issue of "Adolescent Medicine" supports the idea that intravenous magnesium sulfate may be used therapeutically in acute attacks of asthma that do not respond well to standard treatment. Another study conducted by F. Gandia and colleagues and published in the 2010 issue of "Journal of Smooth Muscle Research," evaluated the benefits of using magnesium-based inhalers to decrease respiratory symptoms in animal models. The authors concluded that magnesium fluoride improve the function of respiratory system and may be used for diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Safety
Recommended Dietary Allowance of daily dosage of magnesium varies with age and gender and the upper levels for supplemental magnesium considered safe in healthy adults is 350 milligrams per day. There is no risk of magnesium overdose from dietary sources; however, supplementation with magnesium may cause digestive symptoms such as stomach upset and diarrhea.
Considerations
Magnesium-based supplements do not replace conventional treatment for asthma.
Consult a physician to find out if you may benefit from talking this supplement, optimal dosage, possible side effects and drug interactions.
