allKiDz® Magnesium Gummies

The Importance of Magnesium for Kids

Magnesium is essential for your brain and body, from controlling blood sugar levels to improving physical performance. This mineral is found in every cell in your body and is required to function correctly.

Although it can be found in many foods, from leafy green vegetables to nuts and legumes, many individuals do not consume enough, including young children. We’ll talk about the importance of magnesium, particularly for kids as it is essential for a child’s healthy development and growth.

The Benefits of Magnesium for Kids

Immune systems in younger children are underdeveloped, making them more susceptible to infection. Magnesium is necessary to produce antibodies that combat diseases and keep kids healthy. Kids who take a magnesium supplement will acquire the minerals they need to grow and develop properly, mainly if they don’t eat enough veggies or legumes.

Magnesium helps children retain their activity levels during the day after a whole night’s rest. This would be especially critical while kids are at school, where they must perform and maintain attention. Once they start school, their immune systems become even more vital than ever before, so taking a magnesium supplement can help them stay healthy.

The magnesium levels in our body largely determine the amount and quality of sleep we obtain. Magnesium helps kids’ bodies feel rested, and a lack of magnesium can cause restless muscles that can keep them up at night. Magnesium is well-known for aiding sleep by relaxing nerves and muscles and triggering the generation of the sleep hormone.

Magnesium Deficiency In Kids

Magnesium levels in our bodies impact every area of our life, but it’s especially crucial for babies and kids who rely on these functions to develop and grow correctly.

Magnesium deficiency can affect a child’s temperament, sleep, attentiveness, teeth and bone health, and absorption of other essential nutrients like Vitamin D and calcium. It is required for the formation of bones and the maintenance of normal muscle and nerve function. Deficiency in children can be caused by various reasons, the most prevalent of which is inadequate amounts received from nutrition. Constipation and poor sleep might indicate that your child isn’t obtaining enough magnesium. Since the body utilizes magnesium to deal with the stress response, kids may show more significant signs of a magnesium deficit when under stress.

While meals usually supply enough magnesium, young children often struggle to receive the appropriate amount from diet alone and may need to include magnesium supplementation. Magnesium insufficiency in children is caused by a poor diet that is heavy in processed and sugary foods and low in fruits and vegetables. As current agricultural practices have depleted the soil, several foods that were formerly thought to be high in magnesium are no longer so.

Magnesium and zinc, when taken together and in the appropriate amounts, complement each other. Magnesium may help the body manage zinc levels, and zinc may aid in magnesium absorption.

Identifying Magnesium Deficiency in Kids

Numerous things can contribute to magnesium insufficiency, but a poor diet caused by a lack of nutrient-rich foods is often the principal offender. Dark leafy greens, legumes, seeds, nuts, and unprocessed whole grains are the primary sources of Magnesium. Most adults don’t consume enough of these foods to get the recommended amount of Magnesium, and kids aren’t any different. Understanding dietary and behavioural factors that decrease Magnesium is crucial. Those who consume a diet heavy in calcium, sugar, and even animal protein (common in kids) are depleting the Magnesium they obtain since these foods function as magnesium leeches.

Other frequent causes of magnesium depletion include stress and excessive exercise. It’s crucial to remember that kids can also experience stress and anxiety and that youngsters exhibiting various behaviours may have a magnesium deficit. By influencing different neurotransmitters or brain signalling chemicals, Magnesium plays a few important roles in mental health. Magnesium assists in maintaining a positive mood and the health of the nervous system. A lack of Magnesium is associated with stress. Less Magnesium seems to increase the harmful effects of stress in individuals, including kids. The body requires more Magnesium as stress levels rise, whether mental or physical. Low magnesium levels have been associated with an accelerated stress response in those who experience chronic stress.

It might be simple to believe that it’s all too difficult with so much available information regarding the nutrients our children require. However, Magnesium is one mineral that shouldn’t be disregarded. Here are ways to identify if your child has a magnesium deficiency.

They are moody or agitated

You may experience the brunt of some less than polite remarks and associated behaviour. Suppose a bad attitude permeates the home more and creates specific particular concerns. In that case, it can be a good idea to evaluate the foods that contain Magnesium in the diet or consider supplementing if necessary before punishing your child. The most challenging behavioural problems your child is having might very well be resolved with Magnesium.

Hyperactive or restless

Do you have a sleeping issue with your child? It can be as easy as raising the magnesium content of their diet to get restful sleep. Magnesium is a mineral that the body utilises more often when a youngster is more energetic. They could feel calmer if they regularly eat a diet high in foods that are high in Magnesium. Also, increasing your child’s magnesium intake will support their body in feeling calm before bedtime since Magnesium helps optimal muscle and nerve functioning.

Anxiety

Do your children experience anxiety? Excessive worry and anxiety might be caused by a magnesium deficiency. It has been shown that anxiety levels rise when there is a magnesium deficit, as a low-magnesium diet may impact the gut bacteria that promotes anxiousness. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of calm that Magnesium helps produce. In times of worry or anxiety, Magnesium can aid with GABA production, an excellent function that allows your kids to relax.

They are suffering from cramps

You may be surprised to learn that insufficient magnesium levels can cause cramps and growing pains in kids. Kids frequently complain of discomfort in their calves, thighs, or behind their knees. Muscles typically experience growing pains. The discomfort can be so severe for some kids that it wakes them up from their sleep, and they may yell for assistance. They frequently start in the afternoon or evening before bedtime and usually happen after a child has spent a lot of time physically active.

Stretching, massaging, and applying warm compresses may be effective for providing relief quickly since they promote circulation. However, since Magnesium helps relax muscle tissue and protects it from excessively contracting, you might consider giving your child natural magnesium supplements.

Muscle twitches and tics

In addition to being present in large muscles, tiny muscles, like the eyelid, can also experience tension and spasms. You’ll be relieved that studies have shown Magnesium to be an effective treatment for symptoms such as facial tics and twitches in children.

Constipation

One of the major problems affecting children more frequently is chronic constipation. Constipation is indicated by irregular bowel motions and faeces that are hard and difficult to pass. If left untreated, constipation can impair a developing body. Bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in the gut that support digestion and intestinal movement can be related to chronic constipation.

Consuming a diet heavy in processed foods reduces the gut’s bacteria since they are low in nutrients and fibre. Furthermore, we do not obtain all the Magnesium we need daily from our diet – This is due to over-farming, which has severely reduced the magnesium levels in our soil. This is yet another reason to reduce processed foods and eat organically. Magnesium is a great solution to relieve constipation in kids. It functions as an osmotic laxative by drawing water into the intestines to soften faeces and promote peristalsis. The benefits of Magnesium in kids have been proven to improve a child’s lifestyle.

Common Food Sources of Magnesium

A highly essential mineral is magnesium. Studies have shown magnesium can help with muscle cramps, menstrual, anxiety, and chronic fatigue. Even though it plays a role in numerous chemical processes in your body and promotes wellness, many people lack the recommended daily consumption. However, consuming magnesium-rich foods will allow you to meet your daily requirements quickly. Magnesium deficiency is less common among individuals who consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Unless your levels go incredibly low, the signs of magnesium deficiency are often mild. A deficiency may result in tiredness, cramping or weakness in the muscles, mental health issues, and an irregular heartbeat. Common symptoms, especially in the beginning stages, include nausea and appetite loss. A child’s sleep, mood, focus, energy levels, bone and tooth health, immune system and absorption of other crucial minerals like vitamin D and calcium may all be improved by ensuring they have the right amount of magnesium in their bodies.

Here are the most common food sources that are rich in magnesium below.

Leafy Greens

Kale, spinach, turnip greens, collard greens, and mustard greens are among the vegetables that contain a lot of magnesium. Several minerals, including iron, manganese, and vitamins A, C, and K, are also abundant in them. Additionally, leafy greens include a variety of healthy plant components that help protect your cells from harm. You can prevent a magnesium deficit by providing your body with dark leafy greens, which have relatively few calories.

Nuts

Almonds, cashews, and Brazil nuts are among the nut varieties with the highest magnesium content. In addition to being a rich source of fibre and monounsaturated fat, most nuts have been demonstrated to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Nuts are also anti-inflammatory and good for the heart.

Seeds

Many seeds, including linseed, pumpkin, and chia seeds, are rich in magnesium and provide excellent health benefits. Seeds are also a good source of iron, omega-6 fatty acids, and monounsaturated fat. Fibre contributes to almost all of the carbohydrates in seeds. In addition, they include antioxidants, which guard your cells against damaging free radicals.

To keep your energy levels high and hunger levels low, combine your favourite magnesium-rich nuts and seeds in a healthy homemade trail mix.

Legumes

Beans, lentils, peas, chickpeas, and soybeans are members of the family of nutrient-rich plants known as legumes. They contain high levels of magnesium, among many other minerals. Legumes also provide a significant source of protein for vegetarians and are high in potassium and iron. Legumes may lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar regulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease since they are high in fibre.

Dark Chocolate

In addition to being high in magnesium, dark chocolate is also a good source of iron, manganese and copper, which nourishes the good bacteria in your stomach. It is also rich in antioxidants, which combat the dangerous chemicals known as free radicals that may destroy your cells and cause disease. Dark chocolate is particularly good for your heart because it includes potent antioxidants. Dark chocolate containing a high percentage of cocoa solids will give you the most health advantages.

Whole Grains

Magnesium is one of several minerals found in abundance in whole grains. In addition, many whole grains are rich in fibre, B vitamins, selenium, and other minerals. Whole grains have been found to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Wheat, oats, and barley are examples of grains, as are pseudocereals like quinoa and buckwheat.

Fatty Fish

If you don’t follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, increasing your intake of fish like mackerel, wild salmon, halibut, and tuna may help you obtain more magnesium and vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. High fatty fish consumption has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

Avocado

Avocados include many vitamins and heart-healthy minerals and are a rich source of magnesium. Eating avocados can lower inflammation and cholesterol and enhance the feeling of contentment after eating. Like nuts, avocados are a rich source of calories because they contain a lot of healthy fats and are one of the most nutritious and versatile vegetable choices.

Even though magnesium is often included in our foods, many people, especially kids, find it challenging to consume the recommended amount. You may notice a magnesium deficiency in your child’s diet if you believe they are not getting enough from their food. A dietary magnesium supplement is recommended in this circumstance.

Is Magnesium Citrate a Preferred Choice?

Magnesium is essential for the health of your body and brain and has several positive effects on your circulatory system, blood glucose levels, and emotional well-being such as depression and anxiety and works to support bone health and sleep quality for issues like insomnia. This mineral exists in every cell in your body and is essential for its proper functioning. From leafy greens to nuts, seeds, and beans, it may be found in a wide range of foods. However, many people including kids do not consume enough in their diet. When kids take magnesium supplements, they get the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.

What is Magnesium Citrate?

One kind of magnesium that is frequently used as a supplement is magnesium citrate. Magnesium citrate is a salt and an ionic molecule that comprises both positive magnesium ions and negative citrate ions, which interact with positive hydrogen ions to create citric acid. Magnesium citrate is a great source of dietary magnesium since it dissolves easily in water and absorbs quickly into the body’s tissues and bloodstream. For the body to absorb magnesium, it must be bonded to a carrier. The same holds for all minerals. Magnesium molecules attached to citric acid organically form magnesium citrate.

The Absorption of Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium is available in a wide variety of forms. Citrate and bisglycinate are most likely the two magnesium compounds that are most known and compared. According to the market, it is said that citrate has a lower rate of absorption than bisglycinate. However, magnesium citrate is in fact efficiently absorbed by the body since it is in an organically bonded form and has higher bioavailability compared to bisglycinate. Studies revealed that supplementation of the organic forms demonstrated greater absorption and after 60 days of treatment, citrate led to improved bioavailability when compared to other treatments and showed a superior absorption rate than magnesium oxide and magnesium chelate¹. Magnesium glycinate, derived from a salt that’s been created with glycine, takes longer to regulate the body effectively. In contrast, magnesium citrate’s quick absorption allows it to start working a couple of hours after intake.

Citrate and its Laxative Effect

We are aware of the laxative effect of high-dose magnesium, but the cause and reason are rather undefined. Many people are unaware that magnesium citrate can be safely consumed by children without causing them to experience unfavourable side effects.

The intestines release water into the stool as a result of magnesium. This softens the stools and eases irregularity and constipation. When there is an excess of magnesium at once, the bowels quickly eliminate it. Some people assume that this indicates that your body didn’t absorb it. However, it means that you consumed more than your body could use at once. A smaller dosage can prevent this problem.

Magnesium citrate, which is the active component in many commercially available laxatives, is gentler than some of the other magnesium compounds. allKiDz offers an effective magnesium potency (55mg of elemental Mg/gummy) in the gentle citrate form which is designed to be safe for kids and does not intend to be laxative. Unlike other supplements with high dose which could easily lead to laxative effects, our dosing is rather flexible so your kid will easily enjoy the benefit of Magnesium without suffering from its unfavourable side effects.

Summary

One of the most popular forms of magnesium is magnesium citrate, which has been said to be one of the easiest forms to be absorbed by the body and the most affordable when compared to other forms. High dose magnesium citrate acts as a natural laxative and assists in relieving constipation since it is an organic salt that draws water into the gut. The real reason for the laxative effects of taking magnesium citrate is that there is too much unabsorbed magnesium. The likelihood of experiencing diarrhea increases with dosage which is why allKiDz Magnesium Gummies is a great and suitable option for kids, while also offering the magnesium form that is highly bioavailable.

References:

1. Walker AF. et al., Mg citrate found more bioavailable than other Mg preparations in a randomised, double-blind study. Magnes Res. 2003 Sep;16(3):183-91.

Medicinal ingredient (each gummy):

Non-medicinal ingredients:

Tapioca Syrup, Natural Cane Sugar, Pectin, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Natural Raspberry Flavour, Natural Colour (Purple Carrot Juice), Vegetable Oil, Brazilian Palm Tree Wax (Sustainability Certified)

Children 4-8 years: Take 1-2 gummies 1 time per day

Children 9-13 years: Take 1-4 gummies 1 time per day

Children 14-18 years: Take 1-6 gummies 1 time per day.