ADHD and the connection with magnesium

​What is ADHD? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that makes it hard for some people to focus, sit still, or control their impulses. They may act without thinking, get distracted easily, or have trouble finishing tasks. They may also be very restless, fidgety, or talkative. This condition can affect how people do in school, work, or relationships. It is not their fault, and they can get help from doctors, therapists, or teachers. What is MAGNESIUM? Magnesium is an essential mineral that our body needs to function properly. It supports hundreds of chemical reactions in our body, like converting food into energy, creating new proteins, helping our muscles and nerves work, and regulating our blood sugar and blood pressure levels. If we run low on magnesium in our body, we may have signs and symptoms like: --Losing appetite -Feeling sick to our stomach and throw up -Our muscles are weak and twitchy -Feeling numb, tingly, cramped in our hands, feet, or face -Feeling tired and sleepy -Having difficulty remembering things -Feeling confused or can’t focus well -Feeling sad with mood swings -Feeling angry or nervous easily -Feeling dizzy or lose balance Our body can't make magnesium, so we need to get it from diet or supplements. Good food sources of magnesium include dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, wholegrain cereals, nuts, fruit, fish, meat, full-fat milk, cheese, eggs, cocoa, soy flour, mineral water and hard water.

​Children with ADHD seem to have lower magnesium levels. Preliminary clinical research suggests that MAGNESIUM supplementation might be useful in improving hyperactivity for in children with ADHD and low magnesium levels.

​References Natural Medicines 2019. Koda-Kimble, Mary Anne. Applied Therapeutics: The Clinical Use of Drugs. 9th ed., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009. Braun, Lesley, and Marc Cohen. Herbs & Natural Supplements: An Evidence-Based Guide. Volume 2. 4th ed., Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2015.