Q. I heard your radio program about magnesium deficiency. I am 67, retired, and felt fatigued every day, all day. I would tell my friends, “tired is my way of life.”
After I heard your comments on magnesium, I decided to give it a try. I started taking it Sunday afternoon and by Monday I was no longer feeling so fatigued. Now I don’t have to collapse for a nap at midday, and I’m not wiped out by the end of the day.
It was an amazing transformation from such a seemingly small thing. Thank you.
A. We are delighted to learn of your success. Many people may not realize that they don’t have adequate magnesium. We are surprised that you felt the effects of a supplement so quickly.
One study of multiple sclerosis patients found that those on low magnesium diets were significantly more fatigued than those getting adequate magnesium (Iranian Journal of Neurology, vol. 13, no. 1, 2014).
The interview you heard was our Show 969 with Dr. Carolyn Dean and Dr. Tieraona Low Dog.
Magnesium-rich foods for those who prefer dietary sources include dark green leafy vegetables such as chard, collards, mustard greens or spinach. Nuts such as almonds, cashews or peanuts are also good sources. Legumes such as soybeans, black beans and lentils provide magnesium, and so do avocado, potato and brown rice.