In the body, magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a role in over 300 biochemical process reactions. It affects immune function, blood pressure, metabolism, and much more, so when you are deficient in the nutrient, a variety of things can go wrong health-wise.

Magnesium deficiency is a problem that can have serious health consequences. Yet, some studies suggest that up to 75% of Americans are not getting enough of it through their diet.

Are you lacking in magnesium? Look out for these ten signs…

You Feel Tingles in Your Fingers and Toes

Magnesium deficiency can affect the body in a plethora of ways. One of the effects of a deficiency is nerve damage, which can manifest as numbness and tingling in the extremities.

Tingling in the hands and feet often occurs with peripheral neuropathy, a condition wherein peripheral nerve damage disturbs signals from the brain and spinal cord to the body.

It Feels Like You Have the Flu

Having flu symptoms doesn’t always mean that you have the flu. Sometimes, magnesium deficiency is the culprit behind the unpleasant influenza symptoms.

Nausea, weakness, and loss of appetite are just some symptoms one may experience with low magnesium. If you experience these for more than five days, then see your doctor.

Your Muscles Cramp and Twitch

One of the many health benefits that magnesium provides is muscle relaxation. On the other hand, a lack of magnesium can result in muscle stiffness and involuntary muscle cramps and spasms.

For muscles to work properly, their cells must contain the correct balance of calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Low magnesium levels allow for a greater flow of calcium, which overexcites cells.

You’re Not Quite Yourself

We all get days where we feel off or a little down, but feeling that way all the time signals that there may be an underlying problem. Sometimes, that problem is a lack of magnesium.

Mood and personality changes can occur with low magnesium levels. It can even lead to depression. According to medical experts, magnesium deficiency may also promote anxiety.

Your Heart Beats Irregularly

The heart muscle requires magnesium for its cells to contract smoothly and rhythmically. When there is a magnesium deficiency, disturbing changes can occur, and you may experience heart palpitations.

With palpitations, your heart may race, flutter, or skip beats, which can be scary and dangerous. If you get heart palpitations regularly, then be sure to see a doctor to rule out any serious cardiac issues.

You Get Regular Heartburn

Occasional heartburn is normal. It is seldom a cause for concern. But, when your acid reflux is recurrent and doesn’t respond to medication, it could be because you are magnesium deficient.

When there is a lack of magnesium in the body, food can’t be properly contained by the valves in the stomach. Consequently, food and acid can push up into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Your Energy Levels Are Low

Low energy levels and persistent tiredness are signs that you may not be getting enough magnesium. As a matter of fact, fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium plays an important role in the chemical reactions that generate energy inside the body. Thus, when your magnesium levels are low, this will normally translate as low energy levels.

It’s Been a While Since You’ve Slept Well

Can’t get a good night’s rest? You’re not alone. People who are magnesium deficient often experience restless sleep, struggling to doze off and waking up frequently during the night.

Magnesium is important for sleep. It is required for maintaining healthy levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that enables the brain to shift into a tranquil state.

You Struggle to Go Number Two

Constipation can occur for many reasons. However, if you’re passing fewer than three stools a week and constantly need to strain when you go, it could indicate that your magnesium is low.

To resolve the issue, analyze your diet to determine if you are getting enough magnesium. Magnesium draws water into the stools and has a laxative effect, so that it may be just what your body needs.

You Had an Unexplained Seizure

Having a seizure is a sign that you have a potentially serious health problem. It occurs when there is abnormal electrical brain activity, which a severe lack of magnesium can cause.

Seizures can lead to dangerous and even deadly circumstances for yourself or others. Therefore, you should immediately consult a medical professional if you have experienced one.