Magnesium is a nutrient that is important for several aspects of a child's health. A deficiency could result in health complications. A balanced diet is a good way to be sure she is getting adequate amounts of magnesium. If your child is a picky eater, you may want to consider talking to her doctor about whether she needs to take a magnesium supplement.
Daily Intake Recommendations
The daily intake recommendations for magnesium vary depending on your child's age. An infant 6 months or age or younger needs 30 mg per day and an infant older than 6 months of age should get 75 mg per day. A child between 1 and 3 years of age should get 80 mg. Children ages 4 to 8 need 130 mg each day, while children between the ages of 9 and 13 should be getting 240 mg daily. Until this point, the intake recommendations are the same for both males and females. Once a child reaches the ages of 14 to 18, males need 410 mg of magnesium each day and females need 360 mg.
Importance
Magnesium is a nutrient that your child needs because it aids in keeping her bones strong and healthy. Adequate magnesium intake also ensures normal muscle and nerve function and supports a healthy immune system. It regulates the levels of other nutrients in your child's body, including calcium, zinc, potassium and vitamin D. Magnesium promotes healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure and produces energy for your child's body.
Deficiency
A magnesium deficiency is rare, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. A magnesium deficiency can occur if your child contracts an intestinal virus, has a gastrointestinal disorder or diabetes or consumes too much salt. If this is the case, your child may experience symptoms that include anxiety, irritability, nausea, sleep problems, vomiting, confusion, irregular heartbeat and seizures. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, contact his doctor for treatment advice.
Food Sources
Offering your child a well-balanced diet that includes foods from all the food groups is a good way to ensure that your child is getting adequate amounts of all nutrients, including magnesium. Good food sources of magnesium include, halibut, almonds, cashews, soybeans, spinach, shredded wheat, oatmeal, potatoes, yogurt, avocado, milk, leafy greens, pumpkin and tofu. Some herbs and spices also contain magnesium, including dill, celery seed, sage, basil, fennel seed, cumin and tarragon. Season your child's meals with a small amount to increase her intake without much effort.
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