Is magnesium phosphate good for you?
Introduction
Magnesium phosphate is a form of magnesium supplement that has been called the “homeopathic aspirin” due to its capacity to heal acute pains, including – headaches, earache, and toothache.
This form of magnesium includes both magnesium phosphate, dibasic, and magnesium phosphate, tribasic.
Uses
It is used as an emulsifier and prevents clumping in powders. In addition, it is used as a magnesium salt in food supplements and functional foods.
Furthermore, MP has been used as an active ingredient in numerous pharmaceutical products, like – antacids, laxatives, and magnesium supplements.
It is used in the prevention of magnesium deficiency, which is possibly one of the most common nutritional deficiencies (after iron anemia), which unknowingly causes suffering.
You can experience a magnesium deficiency if you:
- don’t consume enough of the magnesium-rich foods;
- if you have absorption problems;
- if you drink too many alcoholic beverages;
- specific prescription or OTC medicines can deplete the body’s magnesium reserves.
Note – individuals who have problems absorbing essential nutrients from their food usually have celiac disease (a serious autoimmune disease) and inflammatory bowel disease.
Common signs and symptoms of magnesium deficiency may include facial tics, muscle cramps, chronic pain, and poor sleep.
Symptoms of severe magnesium deficiency include:
- low circulating levels of parathyroid hormone;
- tingling or numbness;
- low calcium levels;
- heart failure;
- retention of sodium;
- low blood potassium levels;
- hallucinations;
- delirium;
- personality changes;
- vomiting;
- nausea;
- continued muscle contractions;
- rapid or irregular heartbeat.
This supplement is also beneficial for any burning, stabbing, and severe pain that occurs along a damaged nerve.
More importantly, it is known for its ability to treat stomach and menstrual cramps, spasms, hiccups, darting pains, spasmodic palpitation of the heart, muscle convulsions and twitching, and spasmodic yawning.
Dosage
The tolerable intake levels for this supplement will be different for different patients.
Follow the directions on the label or your healthcare professional’s orders. It is absorbed instantly. This is why it is recommended for people with digestion problems.
Typically, the recommended daily allowance for Mg ranges from 310-320mg a day in females and 400-420mg a day in males.
Note – taking Mg supplements on an empty stomach may cause diarrhea, and it is recommended to take Mg with meals.
Is It Vegan?
Phosphate may be obtained from animal bones. Therefore, check with the manufacturer regarding the source of phosphate.
Side Effects of Magnesium Phosphate
When an individual decides to introduce the Mg supplements into her or his diet, it is important to remember not to overuse it because overconsumption of Mg supplements may lead to hypermagnesemia – an excessive amount of magnesium in the bloodstream.
Common side effects may include:
- troubled breathing;
- muscle paralysis or weakness;
- low blood pressure because of muscle weakness in arteries;
- pain and irritation at the injection site (for intramuscular administration only);
- flushing;
- deteriorating kidney health;
- low serum calcium levels;
- nausea and vomiting;
- dizziness;
- fainting;
- changes in the frequency of urination;
- drowsiness;
- reduced respiration;
- very slow heart rate;
- lethargy;
- cardiac arrest;
- facial flushing;
- vomiting.
It also acts as a central nervous system depressant, and excessive use, ultimately, can lead to an inability to stay awake and sleepiness. This may be worse in patients with kidney disease.
Due to the potent laxative effects of this supplement, the user may experience severe diarrhea when taking it in excessive amounts. The real problem with diarrhea is dehydration as well as electrolyte imbalances.
Hyperphosphatemia
High serum phosphorus concentration, also known as hyperphosphatemia, has been strongly associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease as well as it may predispose individuals to vascular dysfunction (a condition characterized by the poor function of the blood vessels).
Benefits
Reduced Frequency of Migraine Headaches
Individuals who experience migraine headaches occasionally have low levels of Mg in their blood and other tissues.
This supplement may help to reduce the frequency of migraine headaches. This is important since every 10 seconds, an American goes to the emergency room complaining of head pain, with about 1.2 million visits for acute migraine attacks.
Detoxification
Mg inhibits chemicals, heavy metals (lead, mercury, and aluminum), pesticides, and other toxins from attaching to tissue. These compounds are suspected of triggering severe conditions, such as – thyroid problems, heart disease, neurological conditions, dementia, autism, congenital disabilities, and infertility.
Treats Osteoporosis
When used in conjunction with Ca supplements, it can help to reverse osteoporosis, a bone condition that affects many people worldwide. About 53 million people in the US either are at high risk of developing it or have osteoporosis. This frequent bone condition can affect both women and men, and it is more frequent in seniors.
Boosts Energy Levels
Mg is vital for energy metabolism by the activation of enzymes known as ATPases, which are required to generate adenosine triphosphate – energy-transporting molecules found in the cells of all living things.
Improves Digestion
Niacin and riboflavin are essential B-complex vitamins for digestion. Phosphorus helps in the absorption of both these vitamins; therefore, it is required for effective digestion.
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