Magnesium is one of the most overlooked nutrients and there are many unexpected signs of magnesium deficiency.
Often, the first sign of magnesium deficiency parents notice is constipation. (If you or your child has ever struggled with constipation, then you know it is not subtle or easy to miss. )
But when constipation shows up, it’s important to start paying closer attention to what else might be going on.
Magnesium deficiency rarely involves just one symptom… it often shows up as patterns.
Three Unexpected Signs of Magnesium Deficiency
Trouble falling or staying alseep
When magnesium levels are low, kids can feel “wired but tired.”
Restless legs or growing-pain-like discomfort
Magnesium also supports muscle relaxation, and without enough of it, children may experience leg aches, nighttime kicking, or what is frequently brushed off as “growing pains.”
Irritability, anxiety, or big emotional swings
Additionally, magnesium supports stress regulation, and low levels can show up as overwhelm, becoming quick to frustration, or emotional ups and downs after long days.
These signs don’t automatically mean a deficiency or a diagnosis, but they are clues. Our kids’ bodies are incredibly communicative if we know how to listen.
Magnesium Is a Foundational Nutrient (And Why Unexpected Signs of Magensium Deficiency are Problematic)
Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, and yet…
- 50% of the U.S. population is deficient.
- Brands rarely target kids with magnesium-rich foods such as chia and flax seeds, nuts, and leafy greens.
- Many medications deplete magnesium (e.g., antacids, Albuterol, stimulants, antidepressants, or antianxiety meds).
When to Supplement With Magnesium
If anyone in your family is on one or more of these prescription medications or experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, I highly recommend getting on a magnesium supplement.
Our HKHM Advanced Magnesium contains:
- 235 mg of magnesium (enough to make a therapeutic difference)
- Three different types of magnesium (malate and glycinate, which have systemic absorption, and some citrate to get things moving)
- No unnecessary additives or fillers
- Third-party tested, and vetted by Deb Allen (our integrative pharmacist) and me (a board-certified pediatrician)
