It is common knowledge that low Vitamin D levels can increase the risk of developing MS. What is less commonly known is that Magnesium can cause a double whammy: both an increased risk for developing MS and increased symptoms from existing damage because of altered Magnesium levels.
The roles of Vitamin D and Magnesium are not separate. Magnesium is necessary for Vitamin D metabolism. Many clinicians will appropriately recommend Magnesium oxide supplements (400-800mg) along with Vitamin D.
Aside from its supporting role for Vitamin D, Magnesium is directly involved both in nerve and muscle functioning and also in helping nerves communicate to muscles when to contract (through its role in electrical conduction of that message along the nerve).
Further, magnesium deficiency can cause inflammation in the nervous system. Inflammation is the key pathology in MS. In one study, MS patients who took a supplement containing calcium, vitamin D and magnesium had fewer relapses. The researchers theorized that magnesium helped preserve the integrity of myelin (the covering of the nerve cell which is attacked in MS and which is responsible for the speed of transmission of messages along nerve cells). There have been a number of studies examining the correlation of magnesium.intake and the risk of developing MS. The results have been mixed.
Low magnesium levels can aggravate pre-existing MS-related symptoms. In fact, low magnesium levels can cause non MS-related symptoms. The most common symptoms are muscle spasms/twitching/stiffness, fatigue, numbness, and weakness. It can often be hard to distinguish between a new MS flare and symptoms of magnesium deficiency. Blood tests can help.
Magnesium can be supplemented through the diet as well as through supplements. Magnesium-rich foods include nuts, beans, spinach, peas, fruits and dark chocolate. Don’t overdo it with it though as Magnesium can interaction with medications such as antibiotics and cause GI symptoms (diarrhea and abdominal pain).
BeCare MS App can help you track your neurologic health and disability. If you detect through our assessment that you are losing ground, you and your clinician can make a plan to improve your MS care, including Magnesium supplementation.