A deficiency of magnesium can cause fetal growth retardation. It also helps prevent tooth decay and supports the immune system. Magnesium is also helpful for preventing traumatic brain injury. If your child has a magnesium deficiency, discuss the importance of magnesium in their diet with their healthcare provider.
Magnesium deficiency causes fetal growth retardation
Magnesium deficiency in the mother can lead to fetal growth retardation. The estimated fetus weight falls below the 10th percentile of gestational age, which is also known as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Although the causes of IUGR are not known, earlier studies have indicated that Mg status is a significant factor in fetal growth. For instance, studies have shown that Mg concentrations in umbilical cord blood-derived platelets were significantly lower in neonates with IUGR than in control groups.
However, in some cases, it may not be possible to detect a magnesium deficiency in pregnant women. This is because the deficiency may be occult. In fact, a 1968 study by Mahran and Hanna noted that magnesium levels were higher in pregnant women in the third trimester when compared to controls. Magnesium levels in pregnant women can be increased due to pregnancy complications such as hyperemesis gravidarum. Further, magnesium is required by the body for proper fluid and electrolyte balance.
Prevents tooth decay
Getting enough magnesium and calcium in your child’s diet can help prevent tooth decay. These minerals are essential for the health of the teeth and gums. These minerals can also help protect your child’s teeth against other oral problems such as bad breath and gum disease.
Magnesium helps to absorb calcium into the body and is found in nuts, seeds, whole grains and dark leafy vegetables. Vitamin A keeps saliva flowing and helps keep the teeth clean and healthy. The best sources of vitamin A include beef liver, spinach, melon, mom blog and sweet potatoes.
Supports the immune system
It’s important to include magnesium in your child’s diet, which can help fight illnesses. It’s found in foods, but the amount your child needs varies from brand to brand. Some foods have high amounts of magnesium, while others have very little. Make sure your child eats foods high in magnesium and limit processed foods and sugar.
Magnesium is essential for heart function and helps protect the teeth from decay. It also promotes sleep and relaxes the body. This mineral works in harmony with other vitamins and minerals in your child’s diet to promote optimum health.
Prevents traumatic brain injury
Increasing magnesium in your child’s diet is a promising approach to preventing traumatic brain injury. Magnesium plays a critical role in brain functioning by inhibiting the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate and by blocking the NMDA glutamate receptor’s calcium channel. It also relaxes vascular smooth muscle and increases cerebral blood flow.
Besides preventing traumatic brain injury, magnesium is effective in treating many other conditions. In particular, it has been shown to improve peripheral circulation in patients with glaucoma and vasospasm. This, in turn, improves visual field.
However, more studies are needed to confirm these results.