causes of magnesium deficiency
Although you may not get enough magnesium from your diet, it is rare to be deficient in magnesium. However, certain medical conditions can upset the body's magnesium balance. For example, an intestinal virus that causes vomiting or diarrhea can cause a temporary magnesium deficiency.
Reason #1: Low intake of foods rich in magnesium. Magnesium is part of chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, so green leafy vegetables are particularly high in magnesium. The average American consumes foods that are rich in energy and poor in micronutrients such as processed foods, sugar, sodas, and even meat. This is the most significant cause of magnesium deficiency in the U.S.ânot enough green vegetables in our diets. Examples of products and ingredients that contain very little magnesium: 1  Meat (very little)  Milk (very little)
If you take these medications to control blood sugar, your doctor may need to adjust your dose. Digoxin (Lanoxin): Low blood levels of magnesium can increase negative effects from digoxin, including heart palpitations and nausea. In addition, digoxin can cause more magnesium to be lost in the urine. A doctor will monitor magnesium levels in people taking digoxin to see whether they need a magnesium supplement.