Magnesium is an essential mineral used to maintain proper function of the nerves, muscles and other bodily processes. Muscle tension and twitching are common symptoms of magnesium deficiency, and may lead to muscular spasms and tics in some individuals. For best results, emphasize whole grains and leafy greens in your diet to maintain a constant supply of magnesium. Talk to your health-care provider before attempting to treat any condition with magnesium or any other supplement.
Definition
According to MedlinePlus, the average person’s body contains roughly 25 g of magnesium, half of which resides in the bones. In addition to sustaining muscular integrity, magnesium is required for more than 300 chemical reactions that keep the body working properly. Supplements made from magnesium are sometimes prescribed for the relaxant effects on the muscles.
Magnesium and the Muscles
Balancing calcium ratios is one of the essential functions of magnesium in the muscles. According to tests cited by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology website, magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle tension and spasms as a result of excess calcium contractions in the body. Due to its properties as a muscle relaxant, magnesium provides a casodilatory effect by relaxing smooth muscles around blood vessels, potentially counteracting conditions of vasoconstriction. Since vitamin D deficiency negatively affects magnesium absorption, many of its symptoms of muscular degradation may also be a result of insufficient magnesium in the body.
Muscle Relaxation
Unlike calcium, which has a contracting effect on the muscles, magnesium helps promote muscle fluidity and elasticity. As a result, magnesium supplements may interfere with some muscle relaxant medications, including carisoprodol, pipecuronium, orphenadrine, gallamine and succinylchlorine. Oils made from magnesium chloride are sometimes used by massage therapists to help relax muscles during treatments.
Safety Concerns
If you experience routine muscle tension and spasms, magnesium deficiency may be a contributing factor. Maintain a steady supply of magnesium in your diet by consuming legumes, vegetables, whole grains, fish, seeds, nuts and dairy products. Talk to your doctor or dietitian if you feel that your body may be deficient in magnesium.
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