In addition to providing the body with the nutrition it needs to be healthy, vitamins and minerals help organs like the heart function properly. Abnormalities in the heartbeat can be serious, and though magnesium cannot cure heart problems, it may be used in helping to reduce the risk of complications. If you have an abnormal heart beat, talk with your doctor about magnesium and whether it is safe and appropriate for you to consume.
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia as a disturbance in the heartbeat rhythm. When this occurs, the heart may beat too slow, too fast, or simply irregularly. Arrhythmias occur when the electrical signals in the heart do not work properly or fire erratically. Most arrhythmias are not life-threatening, but some are serious and require medical attention or treatment. Medications, pacemakers and surgery are all possible treatments for arrhythmias, depending on the severity and individual circumstances. If you have an arrhythmia or suspect you may have one, see your doctor for a thorough examination.
Bradycardia
A typical adult heartbeat is between 60 and 100 beats per minute; bradycardia occurs when the heart beats fewer than 60 beats per minute. For some individuals, bradycardia does not cause any problems, but in individuals whose heart does not pump enough oxygenated blood through the body, this can be serious. Bradycardia can cause dizziness, fainting and fatigue, and if left untreated, can even lead to heart attack or death. Sometimes medical conditions or medications can cause bradycardia, and addressing these causes can resolve the condition; other times a pacemaker may be necessary to restore a normal heart rhythm.
Magnesium
The mineral magnesium is necessary for the human body to function correctly, including the heart. Magnesium is crucial for maintaining a normal heart rhythm and is sometimes given intravenously to patients with congestive heart failure to prevent arrhythmias, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements adds that low body stores of magnesium may be associated with increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Dietary sources of this mineral include tofu, legumes, peanuts, almonds, blackstrap molasses, green leafy vegetables, oatmeal and bananas. Before using supplements, ask your doctor whether this is appropriate for your condition.
Considerations
If you have an arrhythmia or bradycardia, talk with your doctor about whether magnesium supplements or treatments would be helpful to you before consuming this mineral. Do not use magnesium supplements as a substitute for treatment or medical attention, and do not stop taking the medications your doctor has prescribed. Magnesium can interact with several kinds of medications, including blood pressure drugs, antibiotics, Digoxin and hormone replacement therapy, so tell your doctor about any other medications you may be taking to avoid adverse effects.
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