Adding magnesium... a few questions

[chop456]

I recently called our neurologist to see if it may be feasible to put Paige on the MAD diet to aid in her morning myoclonic control. I am intrigued by the recent research showing this diet to benefit JME patients. Since Paige is a committed vegetarian and a high school athlete (track and cross country) the neurologist is thinking it may not be the best idea. She needs her carbs to fuel her competitive sport and the vegetarian diet does not allow an easy transition to a MAD diet. Ugh - I was hoping ...

Now I am really thinking about adding magnesium to Paige's morning pill consumption. Any suggestions on amounts, time of day, things to note and watch for? Do I need to have blood work done so we can monitor her magnesium levels? She is taking folic acid each morning and a multivitamin (when she remembers). Should I also think about a B12 vitamin? I am at a loss trying to find ways to help with her morning myoclonics. She is getting frustrated and I do not want to necessarily see an increase in meds. She is already taking 300 mg of lamictal.

Another question .. when I called the neurologist she had mentioned that the morning myoclonous (never refers to it as myoclonic seizures) are a symptom of JME. I did not ask questions about them being a symptom. Are myoclonics (the jerks/twitches/jumps) actual seizures? I always thought they were.

Thanks for any advice or information

 

[Nakamova]

Magnesium is very safe at normal doses (though it's always a good idea to check with the doctor first), and there's no need to check levels. Chances are Paige is getting a decent amount from her vegetarian diet (good sources = dark green leafy vegetables, avocados, dried apricots, bananas, nuts, seeds, beans, peas, whole grains and soy). But I think if you wanted to add a supplement, it might be worth trying one at night before she goes to bed, especially because it can sometimes cause mild drowsiness. Magnesium Malate or Magnesium Chloride are readily-available forms that are well-absorbed (better than Magnesium Oxide). The RDA dose for someone her age is approx. 300mg/day, so you might start at half that to see how she feels. You might consider a slow-release form, which can minimize potential side effects like diarrhea.

(I don't take a slow-release form, and my dose is 500mg/twice a day -- I have no problems with any side effects).

 

[Nakamova]

The neuro is sort of splitting hairs with the "myoclonus" terminology. Technically, JME is a seizure syndrome, and myoclonus is one symptom of it. Not all myoclonus is epilepsy-related (for instance, hiccups are also a form of myoclonus), but if the myoclonus is associated with epilepsy, then yes, the myoclonics are considered actual seizures.

 

[Chaz1]

an RBC test costing 49USD will tell you true magnesium levels.....may be the best 49$ u ever spent...

the quality of the magnesium is as critical as not taking any.....

magnesium - SO highly recommened and agree wholeheart with Nav, is safe....