Fish oil and magnesium are both popular supplements that can be found on most health food store shelves. Fish oil provides an array of nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids being among the most important. Magnesium is a mineral which is essential to many processes in the body. There is some indication that fish oil and magnesium can be taken in conjunction to help with certain ailments, including anxiety and ADHD.
Identification
Fish oil and magnesium each play important roles in the body. Fish oil's omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for brain development, heart health and anti-inflammatory action. Magnesium takes part in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, reports Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra in the book, "Reverse Heart Disease Now." These include muscle relaxation, the synthesis of fat and protein and the maintenance of strong bones. Together, fish oil and magnesium are important for the heart, muscles and tissues.
Deficiencies
Research conducted by Dr. Donald O. Rudin and outlined in his book, "Omega 3 Oils," found omega-3 fatty acid deficiency to be common. Similarly, according to the book, "Integrative Cardiology" by Dr. John H. K. Vogel, magnesium is the second most common mineral deficiency in the United States after iron. Because these two nutrients are essential to so many of the body's processes, deficiencies may cause a host of problems.
Uses
Fish oil and magnesium can both be used to treat anxiety, according to Dr. Henry Emmons in the book, "The Chemistry of Calm." Emmons adds that omega-3 fatty acids are linked to mood stability, and magnesium is "king" where stress and anxiety are concerned.
Some research indicates that fish oil and magnesium might also be helpful for ADHD. In the book, "The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with ADD/ADHD," author Linda Sonna notes that boys who have low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. Hyperactivity decreased significantly after magnesium-deficient ADHD sufferers were given magnesium supplements for six months.
Considerations
Fatty acid levels can be tested, so see your doctor if you believe you may be deficient in this important nutrient. Magnesium is harder to test, but a hair strand test performed by a licensed medical professional can give a basic overview of magnesium levels in the body. Work with a nutritionist or practitioner to determine the best way to increase omega-3 fatty acid and magnesium levels if necessary.
References
- "Reverse Heart Disease Now"; Stephen T. Sinatra, MD; 2006
- "Omega-3 Oils"; Donald O. Rudin, MD; 1996
- "Integrative Cardiology"; John H. K. Vogel, MD; 2007
- "The Chemistry of Calm"; Henry Emmons, MD; 2010
- "The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with ADD/ADHD"; Linda Sonna; 2005
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