Fatigue, anxiety, lack of concentration… so many signs that can reveal a lack of magnesium in the child’s body. The benefits of magnesium on the health and well-being of the child are multiple, and its deficiency can have an impact on his physical and / or mental state. What is the role of magnesium? Explanations.

Magnesium is an essential trace element for the proper functioning of the child’s body. It acts on several levels: metabolism, muscle contraction, nervous system, etc. While the body’s needs for magnesium are important, it is however little stored in the body and it is easily eliminated, especially in times of stress or during growth spurts.

Magnesium deficiency can manifest itself at several levels.

Hypersensitivity and hyperactivity

Some of the most prominent signs of a lack of magnesium in the body include anxiety, impulsivity or physical agitation (the child is not standing still). Magnesium has a relaxing effect on the nervous system, and its deficit can have a negative impact on the condition of the child. Magnesium is also involved in the production of serotonin, the neurotransmitter of calm and tranquility, and helps to rebalance the emotional state of the child. Recent research has shown that a diet rich in magnesium or supplementation with magnesium will alleviate most of these symptoms. Therefore, some specialists recommend checking the magnesium level in a child before prescribing anti-depressant medication.

A child lacking in magnesium may also have difficulty with attention, memory and concentration. Restoring the right dosage will therefore help stimulate learning capacities in children.

Fatigue and decreased tone

Besides its positive effects on the psychological balance of the child, magnesium plays an important role in the production of energy in the body. Thus, its deficiency can trigger in children signs of fatigue, drowsiness and decreased tone.

Constipation

Constipation can also be linked to a lack of magnesium. Considered a natural laxative, this mineral promotes relaxation of the muscles of the intestinal wall and stimulates transit.

migraines

Magnesium has been shown to be effective both as a maintenance treatment and as a treatment for migraine attacks in children. Indeed, during migraine attacks, the level of magnesium decreases considerably, and the magnesium intake helps to reduce the duration and intensity of the attacks. By its soothing action on the nervous system of the child, this mineral also helps to prevent the occurrence of crises due to stress or fatigue.

Sleep

Playing an important role in the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, the supply of magnesium in sufficient quantity allows the child to find a quality sleep.

Muscle contraction

Magnesium promotes normal muscle contraction. Cramps, especially in the thighs or calves, can be due to a magnesium deficiency.

Allergies

Since magnesium is a natural regulator of the body’s hyperreactivity, its sufficient intake is positive in the treatment of allergies, including allergic asthma.

Magnesium requirements vary depending on the age and sex of the child. They can increase in times of stress, during growth phases or in children / adolescents who practice competitive sport. As a general rule, an intake of 6,0 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day is advised.

Here is a table of recommended ANC (recommended nutritional intakes) for children:

The human body cannot manufacture or store magnesium. A rich and varied diet is therefore fundamental to maintain the right level of this mineral in the body and to avoid deficiencies. Magnesium is found in many foods:

• fruits and vegetables (spinach, potato, avocado, banana);
• dried fruits (nuts, hazelnuts, almonds);
• legumes (white beans, split peas, lentils);
• dairy products ;
• soy flour ;
• Whole grains ;
• chocolate.

Some mineral waters are also an excellent source of magnesium.

Magnesium deficiency must be confirmed by the attending physician. Indeed, a diet rich in magnesium is not always enough to raise the level of magnesium and supplementation, in the form of dragees, powder or ampoules, may be necessary. The dose will be specified by the attending physician or pharmacist. Note that food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. It is also not recommended to exceed the recommended daily dose.