Magnesium and ADHD: Proven Benefits of Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have been studied together many times because the symptoms of magnesium deficiency are similar to those of ADHD.
This supplement is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. It is biologically important for everyone. But for people living with ADHD, its value is much higher. Data shows magnesium supplements help improve and treat ADHD symptoms.
Magnesium is important to several physical and cognitive functions and magnesium deficiency will create health problems and side effects.
6 Benefits of Magnesium
1. Improved Memory function
Studies have shown natural supplements such as magnesium to have a powerful effect on mental health and the brain’s ability to create memories. This includes long term memories, short term memories, and working memories.
People with magnesium deficiency experience poor memory in all these areas. Similarly, several of the biggest challenges of people with ADHD are poor memory, brain function, and learning abilities.
2. Improved Sleep regulation
Along with hyperactivity, people with ADHD often struggle to get in a few hours of sleep at night. Insomnia is also a symptom of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium improves both the length and quality of sleep.
It does so by maintaining a healthy level of GABA in the body. GABA (or gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the neurotransmitter responsible for reducing activity in the body. When it’s sleepy time, your body should slow down, and rest as needed.
3. Relaxation and Muscle Control
People, especially adults, diagnosed with ADHD often complain about muscle soreness and cramps. They may even experience some struggles with their motor control.
Magnesium is one of the essential minerals for proper muscle health. Without magnesium, our muscles will not relax properly. People with a magnesium deficiency could experience muscle cramps, twitches, and tremors.
4. Reduced Depression
Depression is also a symptom of magnesium deficiency. In such cases, an increase in magnesium is needed, not antidepressants.
Research shows that many people with ADHD will present symptoms of depression, even if they do not meet the full diagnostic criteria. This is often due to the challenges from the disorder causing a “chronic unhappiness”.
Several studies show that an increase in magnesium can improve symptoms, relieve depression, even TRD (treatment resistant depression).
5. Reduced Anxiety
Magnesium is important to several central nervous system functions, including relaxation. People, especially children, who have a magnesium deficiency may struggle with anxiety due to their inability to relax. Similarly, one of the symptoms of ADHD is anxiety.
Very little controlled research has been done on the benefits of magnesium for anxiety. However, the data we have shown high success and improved hyperactivity. Using these results, we can say that magnesium can be used to manage or even treat anxiety. Learn more about how CBD Oil can also reduce anxiety.
6. Improved Attention and Focus
Magnesium is largely responsible for brain energy. It is one of the elements that help our brains transmit communication through the central nervous system.
Poor Concentration and Focus are the defining symptoms of ADHD and why many parents turn to ADHD medications for an ADHD treatment plan. It’s also one notable signal that a person may be magnesium deficient. People with this deficiency can experience slower cognitive processing.
95% of children with attention deficit have been found to have a magnesium deficiency. This study shows that magnesium deficiency occurs more frequently in children with ADHD than other children.
A more recent study places that number at 72%. In this study, magnesium deficiency was found in the majority of ADHD children evaluated.
We don’t have conclusive evidence (yet) on why children with ADHD are more susceptible to magnesium deficiency. What we know is that it happens too often to ignore. If you have a child with ADHD, it is important that you monitor and maintain their magnesium levels.
Magnesium Supplements Improve ADHD Symptoms
Based on the benefits above, we can see how a steady magnesium level can improve and reduce ADHD symptoms. However, it’s not so easy to get the amount of magnesium we need from food.
Reports and experience show that modern agriculture has stripped soils and plants of several natural minerals such as magnesium. This is most prevalent in developed countries. So even when you’re eating a seemingly balanced meal, you cannot fully account for all the nutrients you need.
For children with ADHD who need sufficient magnesium intake, vitamin and mineral supplements are highly recommended. A daily supplement will ensure that their magnesium levels are always healthy. Your child’s increase in the magnesium mineral could be the best treatment for many of their ADHD symptoms.
Recommended Magnesium Dosage
Magnesium is largely responsible for brain energy. It is one of the elements that help our brains transmit communication through the central nervous system.
Poor Concentration and Focus are the defining symptoms of ADHD and why many parents turn to ADHD medications for an ADHD treatment plan. It’s also one notable signal that a person may be magnesium deficient. People with this deficiency can experience slower cognitive processing.
95% of children with attention deficit have been found to have a magnesium deficiency. This study shows that magnesium deficiency occurs more frequently in children with ADHD than other children.
A more recent study places that number at 72%. In this study, magnesium deficiency was found in the majority of ADHD children evaluated.
We don’t have conclusive evidence (yet) on why children with ADHD are more susceptible to magnesium deficiency. What we know is that it happens too often to ignore. If you have a child with ADHD, it is important that you monitor and maintain their magnesium levels.
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Disclaimer:
Please understand that any advice or guidance revealed above is not a substitute for sound medical advice from a licensed healthcare or medical provider. Make sure to consult with your physician before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the information shared above.
Individual results may vary as the statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The effectiveness of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition.