You heard it here first

Not really, I mean, you may hear it here but you've likely heard it before...you don't have to search very long, or hard to find a wealth of information on the web about the benefits of...

Magnesium.

PC: Draxe.com

It's been called one of the most powerful minerals known to man!

Magnesium plays a role in more than 300 chemical responses in the body and one of 6 essential macro-minerals. The human body contains 25 grams of magnesium and half is stored in our skeleton and the rest in soft tissue.  Our kidneys do the regulating of magnesium.  Without it, muscles could not contract, energy would not be produced, and hormones would not synthesize.  It is part of every single tissue in the body.  It is estimated that over 80% of Americans are deficient in magnesium.

So, where does it come from?  Of course it comes from the earth's crust but since it's unlikely you're going to dig up a serving, I'll give you some other options.

The number one food source of magnesium is sunflower seeds and whole wheat flour.   Spinach, nuts and dark chocolate are also on the list of a good source of magnesium.

What happens when we don't get enough or this essential mineral?  Lots of negative things can happen.

Here's a short list...

• decreased bone strength
• depression
• diabetes
• unregulated blood pressure
•  improper nerve function
• poor enzyme function
• poor digestion
• muscle spasms and cramps
• increases our risk for diabetes by impairing insulin secretion
• increased migraines
• increased symptoms of PMS
• a decrease in good bacteria in the gut
• increasing anxiety
• numbness and tingling
• fatigue

The list goes on and on.  Our need for magnesium changes as we age and with pregnancy and  breastfeeding.  Magnesium can interact with medications you may be taking so it's a great idea to consult with your healthcare provider before you get serious about magnesium supplements and finding the right one for you!

Maybe one of the keys to your better health is just a mineral away.

You might need a doctor if...

So, you're carrying on, living your life, everything's great...at least for part of the month when your hormones aren't trying to convince you that you're crazy.  We all live through the cramps, the mood swings, the bloating, the weird cravings, the discomfort, the attitude from others, okay significant others...sometimes. 

Anyways...some breeze through that time of the month in better shape than others.  However it is for you, it's important to know when all those crazy symptoms are more than a little fluctuation in hormones.

You might need to call your gynecologist if...

You miss a cycle!  First, run to the drugstore and get a pregnancy test...isn't that the first thought most have? But, a missed cycle can be something other than a surprise pregnancy.  You could have a secondary health issue affecting your thyroid which in turn, could disrupt your regularly scheduled cycle.  A missed cycle could be caused from a hormonal issue, diet, stress, or pre-mature menopause...or menopause that shows up right on time!

Abnormal Bleeding.  Abnormal Bleeding can happen from time to time and mean nothing more than the fact you overdid it at the gym.  Sometimes, it can indicate cysts or fibroids and again, abnormal cells.  If the bleeding is abnormal for YOU, because really, normal is only a setting on the dryer, then make an appointment to visit us at either our Rigby or Rexburg clinic.

PMS.  The majority of women experience some degree of premenstrual syndrome.  Again, if what you begin to experience is any sort of deviation from what you are use to, you might need to pay us a visit.  It may be nothing but added stress, but it can also be a sure sign of something that needs medical attention. Symptoms you may want to watch out for include, extreme and sudden mood swings, extreme anxiety, rage, feeling out of control.  These can be symptoms of a more serious version of PMS called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

Longer than usual Cycle.  If your typical cycle is 5-7 days and you are on day 10 or 12, you may need a doctor.   Included in this is heavy, excessive bleeding.   This isn't normal and could be a symptom of health condition called Endometriosis.  Abnormal tissue can begin growing and disrupt the typical cycle.  If this is a problem for you, visit with one of our providers. 

Overall health decline.  Sometimes, a change in other health factors can illicit changes in a typical menstrual cycle.  Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, arthritis, depression and any number of other things can affect your monthly cycle.  We run on a delicate balance and when it gets off, we experience a change in the usual and customary effects of PMS.

These are just a few things to watch for.  It's important to pay attention to your body and keep up on your yearly check ups in order to keep everything running in tip top shape!  Don't forget, we are just a call away!