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In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the consumption of magnesium supplements in the UAE. While magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, healthcare experts are warning residents about the dangers of taking these supplements without proper medical guidance. Improper use of magnesium can lead to serious health issues, including heart complications and breathing problems. Doctors
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Rising Popularity of Magnesium Supplements
The surge in magnesium supplement consumption is largely attributed to growing health awareness, social media influence, and dietary deficiencies. According to Ravi Sharma, the Director of Pharmacy Services at Burjeel Holdings, “The noticeable increase in the consumption of magnesium supplements is likely due to the growing awareness of its benefits.” Doctors
Magnesium is essential for muscle function, nerve transmission, and energy production, among other vital processes. However, experts point out that many individuals are taking magnesium supplements without understanding the potential health risks or the necessity of proper medical supervision. Doctors
Dr. John Carlo Brojan, a specialist in internal medicine at the Canadian Specialist Hospital in Dubai, noted an increasing number of patients seeking magnesium prescriptions, often citing stress and sleep issues as the primary reasons for using the supplement. “I have noticed an increase in patients taking magnesium supplements and asking for a prescription,” Dr. Brojan said. Doctors
Factors Driving the Trend
Several factors are believed to be contributing to the growing popularity of magnesium supplements. One key factor is the increased focus on health and wellness, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. As people became more health-conscious during the pandemic, there was a rise in the consumption of various dietary supplements, including magnesium. Doctors
Dr. Areej Al Khalil, a specialist in family medicine at Saudi German Hospital in Dubai, explained, “Increased health awareness, particularly since the Covid pandemic, has made people more conscious about their well-being. This has led to a rise in the use of supplements like magnesium.”
Social media has also played a significant role in this trend, with influencers promoting magnesium supplements for their purported benefits, such as stress relief, improved sleep, and muscle relaxation. “Social media platforms have also played a role, with influencers promoting magnesium supplements for stress relief, better sleep, and muscle relaxation,” Dr. Al Khalil added.
Additionally, many people may not be getting enough magnesium through their diet, which makes supplements an attractive option. Magnesium-rich foods include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, but many diets may lack sufficient levels of these foods.
The Dangers of Excessive Magnesium Intake
Despite the perceived benefits, healthcare professionals are cautioning against taking magnesium supplements without professional advice. “Excessive magnesium intake can lead to serious health risks,” Dr. Brojan warned. Some of the potential dangers of excessive magnesium intake include arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), breathing difficulties, and in extreme cases, magnesium toxicity, which can be fatal.
Magnesium supplements are particularly important for individuals diagnosed with magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia) or those with severe medical conditions like pre-eclampsia, but they should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Dr. Al Khalil further emphasized, “Anything in excess can be harmful to our health. Although our bodies can regulate magnesium levels, excessive magnesium from supplements can lead to serious complications.”
Professional Guidance is Key
Doctors across the UAE are advising residents to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating magnesium supplements into their routines. While magnesium is vital for the body, it is important to ensure that supplementation is necessary and that the dosage is appropriate.
In conclusion, while the rise in health awareness and the popularity of social media may drive many to consider magnesium supplements, healthcare experts strongly urge residents to avoid self-prescribing supplements. Proper medical advice is essential to prevent potential health risks and ensure safe and effective use of magnesium.
Consulting a doctor before taking magnesium supplements can help avoid serious health complications and ensure that supplementation is both safe and beneficial.
