Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a neurological disorder that affects between one and three people per 100,000, according to the MayoClinic.com. Currently, there is no cure for ALS and treatment efforts are aimed at slowing its progression. Magnesium, a key human nutrient, is not generally recognized as an ALS treatment, and you should always consult a physician if you're considering using a medical treatment of any kind.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral your body uses in over 300 chemical reactions to maintain proper bodily functions, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Foods high in fiber, such as legumes, whole grains, leafy vegetables, seeds and nuts, typically have high levels of magnesium. You can get enough magnesium through your diet, but magnesium deficiencies are not uncommon in the United States and you may need to supplement your diet with magnesium pills or multivitamins if you don't get enough.
ALS
According to the MayoClinic.com, researchers aren't sure what causes ALS, though potential causes include gene mutations, chemical imbalances, immune response problems or protein mishandling. Currently, the only prescription medication available for ALS is riluzole, sold under the brand name Rilutek. The drug slows ALS's progression in some patients, though doctors can also prescribe medications to treat the symptoms associated with ALS, such as pain, depression, muscle cramps and constipation.
Magnesium Deficiency and Toxicity
Even if you do not get enough magnesium in your diet, magnesium deficiencies are uncommon in the United States, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. If you do have a magnesium deficiency, you may experience symptoms including loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and weakness. If you have an excess of magnesium, known as magnesium toxicity, you may experience similar symptoms, as well as muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat.
Magnesium and ALS
Currently, there appears to be no evidence to show that magnesium is associated with or can help in the treatment of ALS. Magnesium supplements, according to MedlinePlus, have been shown effective in treating heartburn and as a laxative. Magnesium is also likely effective for preeclampsia and for treating a specific type of irregular heartbeat, though both of these are effective only in intravenous form. There is also some evidence to show that magnesium may be helpful in treating other conditions, such as chest pain, cholesterol, premenstrual syndrome and kidney stones.
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