The Link Between Magnesium and Restless Leg Syndrome

The link between magnesium and restless legs syndrome (RLS) is well known among doctors and researchers. However, there are still many questions about it. Many people have been affected by RLS, but they do not know why their symptoms get worse or disappear after taking certain medicines. There are some theories about the causes of RLS, but no one knows if these theories will ever be proven true.

Magnesium deficiency is very common in the world today. According to the World Health Organization, around half of all adults worldwide are deficient in magnesium. Some studies show that up to 50% of women may suffer from low levels of magnesium in their bodies. People with diabetes and heart disease are at higher risk for developing low levels of magnesium because both conditions increase your need for this mineral.

Low levels of magnesium can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, anxiety attacks and other problems.

Magnesium plays an essential role in maintaining normal blood pressure, nerve function, muscle contraction and relaxation, bone growth and metabolism. Magnesium helps regulate mood, sleep patterns and appetite. Magnesium is necessary for proper brain functioning. It’s also important for the body to absorb calcium from food into bones.

Magnesium is needed to produce hormones such as insulin and testosterone. It regulates the immune system by helping fight infections. It is also used in the treatment of asthma, migraines and ADHD.

If you have RLS or related symptoms, you should consider talking to your doctor or a registered dietitian about your magnesium intake. Magnesium supplements are available in several formulations (e.g. citrate, gluconate, glycinate, oxide, lactate and chloride).

The best type of magnesium to take for RLS symptoms is controversial. Magnesium oxide, glycinate and citrate are all well-absorbed and have a good safety record. If you have a magnesium deficiency or any conditions that may be affected by magnesium intake, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, you should consult your doctor before taking any magnesium supplements.

Magnesium is one the most common minerals in the body, and it has several important jobs. It helps muscles, nerves, and cells work properly. It is also involved in the production of bones, protein formation, blood sugar regulation, and keeping your heart rhythm steady. Magnesium is also needed to make proteins, enzymes, and DNA.

It is necessary for energy production and maintaining nerve health. Magnesium also helps the body defend against infection.

Magnesium is found in foods and dietary supplements. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach contain magnesium. Magnesium-rich foods include whole grains, nuts, and beans. Other foods such as milk, cheese, and soy also contain magnesium.

The recommended daily allowance for magnesium is 320 mg for women and 400 mg for men.

In addition to dietary causes, magnesium deficiency can also be caused by chronic laxative abuse and alcoholism. Alcoholism can cause many changes in body chemistry, including the buildup of toxins that require additional amounts of magnesium to neutralize the effect. The primary symptoms of magnesium deficiency are similar to those of RLS: fatigue, muscle weakness or paralysis, numbness or tingling, and mood swings. Other symptoms include irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, trouble concentrating, and headaches.

Magnesium deficiency is not normally tested by a standard blood test panel, but can be tested with a red blood cell magnesium test. This type of test is orderable if your doctor knows what to test for and why. A typical initial course of treatment would be 400 mg tablets of magnesium (usually magnesium oxide, sometimes glycinate or another type) taken with food for one week and then 400 to 600 mg per day after that until symptoms improve.

While dietary changes and magnesium supplementation can improve magnesium levels, there are other reasons for magnesium deficiency besides poor nutrition and laxative abuse. These include bowel problems that prevent proper nutrient absorption and certain drug therapies such as Diuretics, Succimer, and Acetazolamide. If you’re taking one of these drugs or have a history of diarrhea or any other bowel issues, it’s best to speak with your doctor before supplementing with magnesium.

It is important to note that there are several types of magnesium supplements available. While most tablets, capsules, and liquids are fairly easy to digest, others may cause upset stomach or diarrhea. Before beginning any new supplement regime, it is best to speak with your doctor first.

Anecdotal Evidence and User Reports

Because RLS is a relatively uncommon condition, there is a relative lack of information available on it. As a result, many people suffering from the condition turn to forums and user reviews to help them make important health decisions.

On Yahoo Answers, user reviews are mixed. One user reports that after taking a three month course of antibiotics he developed RLS. The condition worsened to the point where he was no longer able to walk, and had to quit working. Antidepressants were not helpful, but a prescription for 300mg of magnesium taken three times a day provided relief.

Another user found that CoQ10 and evening primrose oil relieved symptoms. Yet another found relief with D-Pinitol.

On the other hand, some people have found that conventional medicine offers no relief at all. A user who has suffered from the condition for over fourteen years said that he tried everything from supplements to pharmaceuticals with no change in symptoms. Others report that years of restless nights have caused ongoing health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression.

In addition to forums, there are several online resources available to those looking for information about RLS and magnesium. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke offers a detailed description of the condition along with information on causes, risk factors, and available treatments. Or you can check out the Restless Leg Syndrome Foundation for information on finding doctors and clinical trials, or to donate to research.

Whether you’re suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome yourself or care for someone who is, magnesium might be a safe, cost-effective treatment that can help relieve symptoms. Magnesium supplements are available at most health food stores and online, in a variety of forms. Start with a small dosage and increase gradually as needed to find your sweet spot. It is best to discuss any medical treatment, including magnesium, with your doctor before beginning any treatment plan.

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The Link Between Magnesium and Restless Leg Syndrome

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