Standard U.S. Postage PAID Grundy County Memorial Hospital 201 E. J Ave. Grundy Center, IA 50638 2024 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Information in LIVE WELL comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. LIVE WELL is published as a community service for the residents of the service area of Grundy County Memorial Hospital, 201 East J Ave., Grundy Center, IA 50638, grundycountyhospital.org, 319-824-5421 Adam Scherling Administrator Kelly Jans Community Outreach Specialist Kate Goecke Marketing Communications Specialist Crystal Petersen Wellness Program Manager Understanding magnesium: Supplements, foods and your health By Crystal Petersen, RDN, LD GCMH Wellness Program Manager When we hear health claims about a nutrient, such as magnesium, it may cause us to question if we are getting enough from the foods we eat. While most Americans do not experience magnesium deficiencies, some may need to consume magnesium-fortified foods or supplements to meet recommended levels. Certain health conditions can prevent the body from absorbing enough magnesium from food or cause higher-than-normal magnesium losses. On the other hand, poor kidney function increases the risk for magnesium levels to become too high, toxic and even fatal. If you are considering taking a nutritional supplement, take the following steps before investing in one. 1 Talk to your health care providers, including doctor, pharmacist or dietitian, before taking a supplement to learn about its potential value for you, proper dosage and possible interactions with current medications. Mineral supplements, like magnesium, have established tolerable upper intake levels, or upper limits, indicating the most your body may be able to manage. Your provider can order a blood test to check your level of magnesium if there is a concern. With adequate blood magnesium levels, a supplement will not provide additional benefits. 2 Learn which foods are rich in magnesium. Foods provide levels your body can manage with additional important nutrients, such as antioxidants and fiber. Nuts, seeds, whole grains, dark green/leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, low-fat milk and yogurt are all reliable sources of magnesium. 3 Purchase a quality supplement. It’s important that your supplement includes the seal of quality assurance displayed on the label, indicating that it contains the ingredients listed and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants. A supplement’s safety depends on its chemical makeup, how it works in the body, how it is prepared and the amount taken. Take a balanced approach to nutritional supplements using guidance from your health care team and reliable information to make decisions that are right for you. Scan the QR code to learn more about magnesium and get some healthy recipes! Need a new PCP? Learn all about Grundy County’s newest provider and see if she might be a good fit for you on page 2.
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