One in 10 Americans suffers from restless legs syndrome, a disorder with vague symptoms, unknown causes and life-altering effects. RLS causes its victims to move continually throughout the night, waking up again and again and ultimately feeling exhausted the following day. RLS-related sleep deprivation can make life difficult and even cause depression. Many sufferers turn to medications for relief, but there is some evidence that nutritional supplements such as magnesium can provide limited relief. If you're thinking of trying magnesium for your RLS, talk with your doctor first.
Causes
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders describes RLS as a nerve disorder that mostly occurs at night, when a person experiences uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. The causes are generally unknown, but there may be a genetic link. It may also be related to kidney failure, diabetes and neuropathy, to medications, to pregnancy and to mineral deficiencies. NIND mentions iron as the only mineral deficiency that may cause RLS.
Magnesium Treatment
Though magnesium deficiency doesn't seem to cause RLS, magnesium may be an effective treatment. Oral magnesium was first studied for RLS in 1998. The results, published in the journal "Sleep," showed that patients awakened less frequently. In 1998, the "Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association" described a patient suffering from RLS who sought naturopathic treatment that included magnesium supplements. The patient was happy with the results. However, there is no firm evidence that magnesium has a strong beneficial effect. It is mostly likely helpful for treating mild cases. According to NIND, you can expect some relief but not the full elimination of your symptoms.
Dosage
If you want to try oral magnesium supplements for your RLS, talk to your doctor about the correct dosage. In the 1998 "Sleep" study participants were given 12.4 mmol of magnesium, which is equal to about 300 mg. Oral magnesium is taken as magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide or magnesium chloride, each of which has different applications and dosage recommendations. However, you should be safe if you stick to the daily recommended intake for magnesium, which is around 400 mg for adult men and 300 mg for adult women.
Recommendations
It's doubtful that oral magnesium supplements will cure your RLS, but they seem to help slightly. To effectively alleviate mild to moderate symptoms, the Mayo Clinic recommends using magnesium and other supplements as one part of a holistic treatment plan that includes pain relievers; warm and cool temperatures; relaxation techniques; exercise; mental activity in the evening; and avoidance of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Restless Legs Syndrome Fact Sheet
- "Sleep"; Magnesium Therapy for Periodic Leg Movements-Related Insomnia and Restless Legs Syndrome; M Hornyak et al.; August 1998
- "Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association"; Restless Legs Syndrome in a Primary Contact Setting; M Stupar; June 2008
- MedlinePlus: Magnesium
- MayoClinic.com: Restless Legs Syndrome - Lifestyle and Home Remedies
