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The Role of Magnesium in Fibromyalgia

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The Role of Magnesium in Fibromyalgia

An investigatory paper by Mark London

_http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html_

(http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html)

_http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html#If_you_are_c_

(http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html#If_you_are_c)

 

Please report any links that are not working to _mrl_

(mrl)

 

This web page was the result of my research regarding magnesium, and why

it's important not only for the average person, but especially for people

with fibromyalgia. If you aren't interested in reading lots of studies, and

are already convinced of magnesium's importance, then just click here to

get to my recommendations

_http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html#Suggestion_

(http://web.mit.edu/london/www/magnesium.html#Suggestion) . Please

note, magnesium is only one of many possible treatments that can help

fibromyalgia. It, by itself, cannot effectively treat it.

 

 

Magnesium deficiency is very common in the general US population. Not

only is our daily intake low, but we eat a diet which increases the demand for

magnesium. And unfortunately, urinary magnesium loss can be increased by

many factors, both physical and emotional. Magnesium loss increases in the

presence of certain hormones. Stress can greatly increase magnesium loss.

Even loud noises can cause magnesium loss. One article on the web goes so

far as to say that that almost everyone is the United States is at least

marginally deficient in magnesium. So there is an excellent chance that a

person with fibromyalgia has a magnesium deficiency. But since people with

fibromyalgia often have high levels of stress, and a disrupted hormonal

system, they are more likely to be candidates for magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium utilization is also increased by the presence of estrogen, and this

might explain why many women are diagnosed with fibromyalgia after menopause

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3463950?dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3463950?dopt=Abstract)

when estrogen levels would decrease. Additionally, the sleep disruption

which occurs in fibromyalgia might also affect magnesium utilization, as

sleep deprivation has been shown to cause lower magnesium levels.

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9068914 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_uids=\

9068914 & dopt=Abstract)

 

The reason lack of sleep causes a magnesium deficiency is probably due to

the lower amounts of growth hormone secretion which occurs due to a sleep

disturbance, especially the type that is found in people with fibromyalgia.

Growth hormone is responsible for creating a substance known as IGF-1, or

insulin growth factor. IGF-1 has been found to have many uses by the body.

It's especially known for tissue repair. However, it can influence

intracellular levels of magnesium, as the following studies show:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9851785 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9851785 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9828151 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9828151 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Also, IGF-1 affects excretion of magnesium by the kidneys:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10381152 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10381152 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Magnesium deficiency is therefore one of many problems in people with

fibromyalgia which is due to or influenced by the sleep disturbance. So while

it's possible to attain some benefit from taking magnesium, treating any

sleep disorder is just as helpful, if not more so.

 

 

Magnesium is extremely important to many functions in the body, which is

why a deficiency can cause many different symptoms. It is most widely known

for being needed for proper bone formation. With a deficiency, bones will

be soft, and it can play a role in osteoporosis. However, magnesium is

also the activating mineral for at least 350 different enzymes in the body,

more than any other mineral, so it is crucial for many of the metabolic

functions in the body. Magnesium is necessary for almost all the enzymes that

allow the glycolytic and Krebs cycles to turn the sugar and fat we eat

into ATP. Low levels of ATP have commonly been found in people with

fibromyalgia, and it is believed that this plays an important role in many of

the

fibromyalgia symptoms. Thus, a magnesium deficiency would definitely be a

factor in worsening those symptoms.

 

Magnesium is extremely necessary for proper ATP synthesis, because ATP is

stored in the body as a combination of magnesium and ATP, which is known as

MgATP. ATP requires magnesium in order to be stable. Without magnesium,

ATP would easily break down into other components, ADP and inorganic

phosphate.

 

 

The brain heavily relies ATP for many functions. In fact, 20% of total

body ATP is located in the brain. Thus, low levels of ATP can diminish brain

cognitive functions, a common problem in people with fibromyalgia.

 

 

Adequate magnesium is necessary for proper muscle functioning. Magnesium

deficiency promotes excessive muscle tension, leading to muscle spasms,

tics, restlessness, and twitches. This is due to an imbalance of the ratio of

calcium to magnesium, as calcium controls contraction, while magnesium

controls relaxation. Plus, in fibromyalgia, changes are seen in the muscles,

such as " significantly lower than normal phosphocreatine and ATP levels "

and " values for phosphorylation potential ... also were significantly

reduced " :

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9506567 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9506567 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

But all of these same changes are found also in magnesium deficiencies:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=8988330 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=8988330 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=7847586 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=7847586 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=8399369 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=8399369 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Magnesium may also help Myofascial Pain Syndrome. According to Devin

Starlanyl's web page " Myofascial trigger points can be identified and

documented electrophysiologically by characteristic spontaneous electrical

activity

(SEA). They may also be identified histologically (which means that the

structure of the cells have changed) by contraction knots-- the lumps and

bumps we know only too well. Both of these phenomenon seem to result from

excessive release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) from the nerve

terminal of the motor endplate (the complex end formation of the nerve). "

But magnesium is well known for being able to inhibit ACh release:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=2812517 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=2812517 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

And in fact, intravenous magnesium sulfate is used in emergency situations

because of this effect on acetylcholine:

_http://pedsccm.wustl.edu/All-Net/english/pulmpage/respfail/MGSO4.HTML_

(http://pedsccm.wustl.edu/All-Net/english/pulmpage/respfail/MGSO4.HTML)

_http://www.templejc.edu/ems/drugs/Magnesium.html_

(http://www.templejc.edu/ems/drugs/Magnesium.html)

 

Magnesium is known to regulate or inhibit many nerve receptors, such as

NMDA or 5-HT3, which have been considered as sources of certain types of

fibromyalgia pain. Neurontin, for example, is used because inhibits NMDA

activity. Since magnesium also blocks NMDA receptors, studies have used

intravenous magnesium therapy to try and treat similar types of neuropathic

pain:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10687324 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10687324 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9785788 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9785788 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

And it*s because of magnesium*s ability to regulate nerve functions that

other fibromyalgia symptoms occur. Migraine headaches, mitral valve

prolapse, and Raynaud*s phenomenon, all problems commonly found in people with

fibromyalgia, are also problems that have been associated with a magnesium

deficiency. Without enough magnesium, nerves fire too easily from even minor

stimuli. Noises will sound excessively loud, lights will seem too bright,

emotional reactions will be exaggerated, and the brain will be too

stimulated to sleep, all symptoms commonly found in fibromyalgia. And if the

oversensitivity to light and noise reminds you of someone suffering from a

hangover, they are one and the same problem, as alcohol is known for

decreasing magnesium levels, and magnesium supplementation has been found to

relieve

hangover symptoms.

 

 

Another commonly found condition in fibromyalgia which has nervous related

symptoms is reactive hypoglycemia. Anxiety related symptoms occur after

carbohydrate intake, and this is believed to be due to either an excess

release of adrenaline, or a higher sensitivity to adrenaline. In either case,

a deficiency of magnesium could be a factor, as magnesium deficiency

appears to associated with anxiety and high levels of adrenaline.

_http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html#anxiety_

(http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html#anxiety)

_http://www.pbraunmd.org/magnesiu.htm_

(http://www.pbraunmd.org/magnesiu.htm)

 

 

Not only that, but magnesium also affects carbohydrate metabolism in a

different manner, as a magnesium deficiency appears to create resistance to

insulin, Insulin resistance increases levels of insulin, which may result in

a form of diabetes. Additionally, insulin resistance by itself can

distrupt intracellular magnesium levels, as the following web page explains.

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=8861135 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=8861135 & dopt=Abstract)

 

Thus, **insulin resistance and magnesium depletion may result in a vicious

cycle of worsening insulin resistance and decrease in intracellular Mg(2+)

which may limit the role of magnesium in vital cellular processes.**

 

 

Magnesium also appears to be able to also affect the nervous system by

regulating the release of hormones, which occurs due to many different forms

of stress. However, this hormonal activity is disrupted in fibromyalgia.

Often there is an exaggerated release or high levels of noradrenaline (also

known as norepinephrine), as the following studies show:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=2532682 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=2532682 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10765933 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10765933 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

However, magnesium appears to play a role in regulating noradrenaline

levels. For example, in the following study on mitral valve prolapse,

magnesium supplementation not only relieved symptoms, but also reduced the high

level of urinary noradrenaline excretion:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9070556 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9070556 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

And genetically bred mice with low magnesium levels have also been found

to have high noradrenaline levels:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lls

t_uids=7545412 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & llst_ui\

ds=7545412 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

And ,as was previously mentioned, sleep deprivation appears to lower

magnesium levels. However, in another study, sleep deprivation was found to

raise noradrenaline levels:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10372697 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10372697 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Thus, there appears to be a strong link between high noradrenaline levels,

and low magnesium levels. And this imbalance of hormones could play a

role in exercise tolerance in fibromyalgia. High noradrenaline levels are

associated with low exercise tolerance. This might be due to the fact that

noradrenaline causes constriction in blood vessels, and this could reduce

oxygen flow during exercise. This is made worse by the lower than normal

adrenaline levels in fibromyalgia, as adrenaline is able to dilate blood

vessels in the skeletal muscles and the liver. However, magnesium is able to

relax smooth muscles around blood vessels, and thus has a strong

vasodilatory effect, which could counteract the vasoconstriction effect of the

hormones.

 

Related to this is the previously mentioned study of patients that were

sleep deprived which resulted in low magnesium levels. They were also found

to have lower levels of exercise tolerance. But in a subsequeent study, it

was found that magnesium supplementation was able to raise that tolerance:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9626901 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9626901 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Respiratory problems such as asthma have also been associated with high

levels of noradrenaline, and thus magnesium might be of help for those

conditions.

 

 

A magnesium deficiency also increases levels of substance P, a chemical

which has been implicated as being responsible for increased pain levells in

FMS. Several studies, such as the following, show this:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=1384353 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=1384353 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

However, even just as important is the fact that this study also shows a

rise in inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are part of the immune system.

However, raised levels of certain cytokines have been implicated in many

health problems and diseases, and some researchers feel that they may be

responsible for many of the symptoms of FMS and CFS, as these cytokines play a

role in metabolic and many other functions. Sleep deprivation studies also

show an increase these cytokines, not surprising since we have shown that

sleep deprivation can cause a magnesium deficiency. The following study

showed a significant increase in one of these cytokines, interleukin-6. This

cytokine appears to play a role in the fatigue and other health symptoms

that directly result from lack of sleep:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10443646 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10443646 & dopt=Abstract)

 

Since a sleep disturbance could cause a rise in these cytokines, and since

this study also postulates that these cytokines themselves play a role in

regulating sleep, a spiraling effect could occur, as the high levels of

these cytokines could cause sleep to be constantly disturbed Such a circular

effect has been proposed for the cause of FMS.

 

 

Magnesium is thus involved in many functions in the body, and so it's no

wonder that the chemical brain imbalances in fibromyalgia somehow seem

connected to processes involving magnesium. Surprisingly, little is known

about

magnesium, as compared to other minerals in the body. So it could be that

magnesium even has more effects that we are not yet aware of. And it's

because magnesium is involved in so many processes in the body, that a

deficiency has a spiraling effect. Low magnesium levels causes metabolic

functions to decrease, causing further stress on the body, reducing the body's

ability to absorb and retain magnesium. A marginal deficiency could easily be

transformed into a more significant problem. Any stressful event could

trigger magnesium loss. So one could postulate that stressful events which

trigger fibromyalgia are doing so by creating a high loss of magnesium.

Perhaps people in a fibromyalgia flare could be helped by additional magnesium.

 

 

Unfortunately, magnesium deficiency is not easily detected, as serum

levels do not reflect the levels of magnesium in tissues. This is the reason

why it is so overlooked and ignored, both by doctors and by studies. And

unfortunately, oral magnesium supplementation can be difficult because of

absorption problems. Digestion and diet play a key role in absorption. People

with fibromyalgia often have conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome,

gluten intolerance, or other problems that might limit absorption. Excess

amounts of certain substances, such as fructose, may interfere with

magnesium absorption. Phosphate can bind to magnesium in the gut, creating

magnesium phosphate, an insoluble salt that can't be utilized. Many forms of

oral

magnesium supplements are hard to assimilate. The most common, magnesium

oxide and citrate, happen to be the worst to assimilate, which is why both

have a strong laxative effect. If you suffer from that effect when you

take magnesium, it is often not because you are taking too much, but because

you are not assimilating it well. And it may take long term use of

supplements before magnesium levels are raised in all the tissues, and for

damaged

cell functions to be restored.

 

 

A magnesium deficiency increases cell membrane permeability, and this

condition is believed to lead to a decrease in the intracellular antioxidant

system, shown in the following study, one of several in MEDLINE:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=10192096 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=10192096 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

Changes in cell membranes and subsequent intracellular imbalance in cells

reduces the body*s defenses against toxins such as heavy metals. A long

term magnesium deficiency may lead to many other secondary problems that have

their own host of symptoms.

 

 

A magnesium deficiency causes an increase in intracellular calcium levels,

which may lead to calcification and cell death. And a few more studies

for those interested on the effects of a magnesium deficiency on cell

disturbances and mitochondria damage:

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9529585 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9529585 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=9641824 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=9641824 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=7738680 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=7738680 & dopt=Abstract)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & lis

t_uids=8988330 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_ui\

ds=8988330 & dopt=Abstract)

 

 

And if you are still skeptical of the importance of magnesium, I suggest

you read the following: _http://www.mgwater.com/dur30.shtml_

(http://www.mgwater.com/dur30.shtml) While most symptoms which are directly

due to a

magnesium deficiency are reversible, magnesium deficiency indirectly causes

problems that may not be reversible. **With a high aluminum diet alone,

aluminum content in the nervous system in rats showed no difference with a

control group aluminum serum aluminum was high. However, with an insufficient

intake of magnesium the same aluminum load induced an increase in aluminum

and calcium concentrations in the nervous system and neurodegeneration with

precipitation of insoluble hydroxyapatites.** Combined aluminum

intoxication with calcium-magnesium deficiencies is not reversible through

physiological oral magnesium supplementation. And also from that web page:

**nervous

consequences of magnesium deficiency** ... **are completely reversible

since they can be restored to normal with simple oral physiological magnesium

supplementation** but it should also be pointed out that a prolongation

of untreated chronic magnesium deficiency can produce irreversible lesions

with histological changes.

 

 

Magnesium Supplement Suggestions

 

 

If you are considering taking magnesium, I would suggest looking for a

form that allows to you start with a low amount, and then slowly increase that

dose. Unabsorbed magnesium will cause a laxative effect, so the amount

that you can tolerate will be limited by this effect. This effect often

isn*t seen until a day later, which is why you should only slowly increase the

dose. The RDA for magnesium is 400mg. If this amount helps any of your

symptoms, then you may be helped by taking more than that. Magnesium is

often better absorbed when taken with food. Also, you can absorb more

magnesium, if you take it in small doses, such as some with each meal. This is

what

I do. And if possible, you might also want to avoid taking magnesium with

foods that are high in phytic acid, such as whole wheat, as this might

bind to the magnesium.

 

 

Taking magnesium with calcium is often suggested, because the 2 minerals

work together in buildling bones. Another good reason for taking the

calcium, is that calcium (especially calcium carbonate) can offset some of the

laxative effect from the magnesium. Traditionally, it's been recommended to

take calcium and magnesium in a ratio of 2/1, as that is the ratio of the

RDA of calcium and magnesium. This ratio is based on the amount of calcium

and magnesium in bones, but there is no reason not to take more magnesium

than this, as more magnesium does not increase the need for more calcium.

Magnesium is often poorly absorbed, so many doctors believe the ratio should

be closer to 1/1.

 

 

Please note that not all forms are the same. Magnesium oxide is one of

the most common, but studies have shown it to be poorly absorbed, due to low

solubility. Studies show that other common forms, such as citrate,

chloride, glycinate, taurate, aspartate, are all better absorbed. However,

some

people instead recommend chelated forms, believing that they are the best

absorbed.. Although in theory this might be true, surprisingly there are no

published studies to back up this claim. .

 

 

If one brand of magnesium does not work for you, or if you experience a

side effect, consider switching to a different brand, as the substance which

is combined with the magnesium may be the cause of the side effect. Many

people have found that liquid forms of magnesium help when pills do not

help.. This is probably due to increased solubility. There are various forms

of liquid magnesium, i.e. magnesium chloride, gluconate, and citrate.

Magnesium chloride is well absorbed, although the liquid form has to be kept

refrigerated. Liquid gluocate (magonate) contains not only a lot of

glucose, but several additives to make it taste better, and also a perservative

to

keep it from spoiling. Liquid magnesium citrate is the most common liquid

form.. Some people believe that magnesium citrate is not well absorbed,

and point to the fact that magnesium citrate is marketed as a laxative. On

the other hand, almost any form of magnesium, taken in excess, will cause a

laxative effect. Magnesium citrate is probably used as a laxative, simply

because it's an inexpensive form, and very soluable.

 

 

Another form which some people find very useful is the time released

version. Having a steady source of magnesium has been found to help in cases

where plain magnesium did not help. One can do this by taking lots of small

doses, especially if one uses a liquid form, but this is inconvenient.

Time released supposedly is absorbed over a 8-10 hour period. There are 2

available forms, magnesium chloride and magnesium lactate Two brands are

available which contain magnesium chloride, Slow Mag and Pro-Mag. Slow Mag

contains several additives that Pro-Mag does not. Plus, Slow Mag is enteric

coated, which is done to avoid a stomach upset.. However, one study

suggests that this may prevent proper absorption. Pro-Mag is made by Douglas

Laboratories, and I personally have had good results with it. Another good

alternative is Mag-Tab. It contains magnesium lactate, and has been reported

by some people to be even better absorbed than the magnesium chloride,

possibly because it is released over a longer period of time. Time released

forms are more expensive, so many people recommend a combination of pills

and time released, and it may be more effective to combine a slow acting form

with a quickly acting form.

 

 

Also note that B vitamins are necessary for proper utilization of

magnesium. Some people with fibromyalgia might have B vitamin deficiencies,

especially B12. One study, has shown that homocysteine levels are high in the

cerebrospinal fluid, and this indicates low levels of B12 in the brain.

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_uids=\

9

310111 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_uids=\

9310111 & dopt=Abstract)

 

Additionally, homocysteine causes a depletion of intracellular free

magnesium:, and according to the following study,

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_u

ids=10553943 & dopt=Abstract_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=PubMed & list_uids=\

10553943 & dopt=Abstract)

only a combination of B6, B12, and folate acid can stop this depletion of

magnesium. Thus, some people with fibromyalgia might benefit from B

vitamin supplementation. (However, certain B12 deficiencies require B12 shots,

as some people are unable to orally absorb enough B12.)

 

 

In some people, the problem might not be enough magnesium, but instead

might be not enough vitamin D, which has an effect on magnesium absorption.

Up until recently, doctors only associated a vitamin D deficiency with weak

bones, and they believed that a vitamin D deficiency in young people was

rare in countries like the US. However, both of these beliefs have been

proven false. Not only does it occur in young people, but sometimes a vitamin

D deficiency can manifest itself mainly as pain. Initial symptoms in

adults can often appear as vague musculoskeletal pains, muscle weakness, and

fatigue, symptoms commonly found in fibromyalgia. Also, studies on the

muscles of vitamin D deficient patients, show a reduction of ATP levels,

similar to that of fibromyalgia patients.

 

 

In some cases, the deficiency leads to myopathy, with quite severe muscle

weakness, especially affecting the legs and ability to walk. On the other

hand, sometimes the symptoms are less severe, in which case it could be

easily overlooked in fibromyalgia patients. In fact, several small studies

have shown that at least 40% of patients with fibromyalgia have a vitamin D

deficiency.

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=A

bstract & list_uids=12810939_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=Abstr\

act & list_uids=12810939)

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=A

bstract & list_uids=11708429_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=Abstr\

act & list_uids=11708429)

 

 

And while some blood tests can possibly indicate a vitamin D deficiency,

often a deficiency can exist without any other biochemical changes. Thus,

the only definite way to tell if you have this problem, is by testing

vitamin D levels. Unfortunately, very few doctors do this. So It's quite

possible that some people who have fibromyalgia, might also have a vitamin D

deficiency. Or perhaps they never had fibromyalgia to begin with. In the

following study from Canada, only 12% of patients referred to rheumatologists

with the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, actually had fibromyalgia:

 

_http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=A

bstract & list_uids=12595620_

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve & db=pubmed & dopt=Abstr\

act & list_uids=12595620)

 

 

I personally started taking magnesium for spasms and facial tics, only

doing so on my own after neurologists simply told me to either get better

sleep or take a prescription drug. The magnesium helped almost immediately,

and I then slowly increased the dose to about 225% the RDA (balanced with

100% calcium RDA) At that point, all spasms and tics stopped completely, and

they have not returned since starting that dose several years ago. I doubt

any traditional doctor would have been willing to prescribe that much

magnesium. The RDA is 400mg, but many people believe this is too low.

Traditionally, it's been recommended to take calcium and magnesium in a ratio

of

2/1. But magnesium is less easily absorbed than calcium, so this ratio may

not be valid for a lot of people, and in fact many cal-mag combinations found

in health food stores often have additional magnesium.

 

 

Magnesium is just one of many helpful remedies and/or supplements for that

might be helpful for fibromyalgia. It's not a cure, but it may be helpful

in relieving some of the symptoms. For more information about magnesium,

click here to read Sandy Simmons*s web page on magnesium.

_http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html_

(http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html)

(http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html)

 

 

Copyright © 2007 Contents of this article are the property of Mark R.

London, _MRL_ (MRL) Contents can be

forwarded to other people and posted on the internet, as long as it is

forwarded

in full. Contents cannot be used in any way in any other media, without

permission of the author.

 

Mark London _MRL_ (MRL)

 

 

 

RELATED ARTICLES

 

Common Conditions That May Result from Low Magnesium Levels

_http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html_

(http://www.ctds.info/5_13_magnesium.html)

 

The Miracle of Magnesium

By Carolyn Dean, MD, ND

Magnesium deficiency triggers or causes the following 22 conditions; the

introduction of magnesium, either by a high-magnesium diet, with green

drinks, or magnesium supplements, can help alleviate these conditions:

_http://articles.mercola.com/sites/artic

les/archive/2004/08/07/miracle-magnesium.aspx_

(http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2004/08/07/miracle-magnesium\

..aspx)

 

Magnesium and Osteoporosis

Magnesium acts as a balancer of calcium in our body. Magnesium is also

nature's " calcium channel blocker " , preventing the entry of excessive calcium

in to the cell that causes contractions, contributing to chest pain,

hypertension, and arrhythmias. Magnesium deficiency can cause various

abnormalities of calcium metabolism, resulting in the formation of calcium

deposits in

arteries.Magnesium - Balancer of Calcium; Calcium Supplementation;

Osteoporosis Prevention Protocol. Magnesium acts as a balancer of calcium in

our

body, much like progesterone balance the effect of estrogen, and omega-3

balances omega-6 fatty acids. Studies have shown that 500 mg a day of

magnesium reduce the recurrence rate of kidney stones by as much as 90%..

Magnesium

deficiency can cause various abnormalities of calcium metabolism,

resulting in the formation of calcium deposits in arteries. Magnesium balances

the

body's calcium supply and keeping it from being excreted. Without enough

magnesium and other trace minerals, calcium ingested, especially if

excessive, will be deposited not in the bone but perhaps in the wall of our

arteries.

_http://www.lammd.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/magnesium_and_osteoporosis.cfm

_

(http://www.lammd.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/magnesium_and_osteoporosis.cfm)

_http://www.drlam.com/articles/magnesium_and_osteoporosis.asp?print=yes & page

=1_

(http://www.drlam.com/articles/magnesium_and_osteoporosis.asp?print=yes & page=1)

 

Magnesium & Calcium

Although the process of absorption for magnesium is similar to that of

calcium, some people absorb or retain much more magnesium than calcium (or

more calcium than magnesium), so the commonly suggested supplemental intake

ratio of 2:1 for calcium and magnesium is really an arbitrary value that can

change significantly under various individual circumstances. This is good

to read if one is deficient in minerals and/or concerned about magnesium and

ratios to calcium, potassium etc. Calcium causes muscles to contract;

magnesium causes muscles to relax. This relates to the heart as well; it is a

muscle too.

_http://www.acu-cell.com/acn.html_ (http://www.acu-cell.com/acn.html)

 

Links to over 300 articles discussing magnesium and magnesium deficiency

scroll down the page to list

Diseases/Conditions/Illnesses listed aphabetically. Migraines, Fatigue,

Allergies, Asthma, Heart Conditions, Diabetes, Tinnitus, MS, FM, Aging, more.

_http://www.mgwater.com/_ (http://www.mgwater.com/)

_http://george-eby-research.com/html/twohundred.html_

(http://george-eby-research.com/html/twohundred.html)

 

MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY IN FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME

Magazine: Journal of Nutritional Medicine, Spring, 1994

Section: ORIGINAL RESEARCH

Since patients with either Fibromyalgia syndrome (FS) or low magnesium

(Mg) levels can have fatigue, sleep disturbance and anxiety, it was necessary

to determine if some patients with FS also have low Mg levels. Both red

blood cell (RBC) and plasma Mg levels were measured in 100 consecutive FS

patients and 12 osteoarthritis (OA) control patients. Compared to reference

laboratory and OA controls, FS patients had significantly lower RBC Mg levels.

The plasma Mg levels of FS patients were no different than the reference

laboratory or OA controls. Some FS patients have low Mg levels, a problem

that is potentially correctable.

_http://www.rainbowminerals.net/fibromyalgia_magnesium.html_

(http://www.rainbowminerals.net/fibromyalgia_magnesium.html)

 

Calming Your Life & Tinnitus with Magnesium

by Barry Keate

_http://www.tinnitusformula.com/infocenter/articles/treatments/magnesium.asp

x_

(http://www.tinnitusformula.com/infocenter/articles/treatments/magnesium.aspx)

 

(http://www.papercut.biz/emailStripper.htm)

 

 

 

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