Do you take a prescription or over-the-counter heartburn medication of the proton-pump-inhibitor variety? These include name brands such as Prilosec (omeprazole), Protonix (pantoprazole), Nexium (esomeprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole), etc.
If you do, and have been taking them for over a year, new research shows that these drugs, and a few other PPI’s, can dangerously lower magnesium levels in the body according to pharmacist Kieu Okuley of Okuley’s Pharmacy in Defiance, Ohio.
Why worry about low Magnesium?
- It’s one of our body’s essential ions
- Potential for bone health problems
- Increased risk of heart health issues
- Decreased ability to synthesize proteins
- Lowered carbohydrate metabolism
- Detrimental to over 300 enzyme systems
What are the symptoms of low Magnesium?
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle twitching
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Chocolate cravings
How can I remedy the effects of low Magnesium?
- Stop taking PPI’s with the recommendation of your health care provider
- Use natural remedies such as Papaya Enzymes or Apple Cider Vinegar
- Remedy reflux issues by keeping of food diary to identify trigger foods
- Eat less or eliminate refined sugars and flours from the diet
- Use an elimination diet to see if food allergies are causing reflux
- See a nutritionist, chiropractor, or naturopath to help determine the cause and treat the symptoms naturally
- Take a high quality Magnesium supplement
Disclaimer: The author of this article is not a medical doctor. Please seek the help of a trained and licensed healthcare provider if you need assistance treating acid reflux, or suspect low Magnesium.
How do you treat heartburn naturally? Do you have any remedies to share with our readers?
