Q & A with Dr. Teitelbaum

[Guest guest]

[A bit of overview: The tight tender knots that occur in muscles, called

" trigger points, " are the bunched up center of a muscle stuck in the shortened

position. Muscles get stuck in the shortened position when they do not have

enough energy (like a spring, it takes more energy for a muscle to relax than to

contract). Magnesium is critical for energy production in the muscle, and

therefore muscle relaxation. In fibromyalgia (and the related condition CFS),

muscles are contracted throughout the body causing widespread pain, tightness,

tenderness and trigger points.]

1.

Do you believe that a magnesium deficiency could be a cause of

conditions such as fibromyalgia and CFS?

Answer: It absolutely is an important contributing factor. Most Americans are

magnesium deficient, as food processing decreases the magnesium in the diet from

the normal 650 mg a day to under 300 mg a day — a massive deficit for our

bodies.

2.

Are chronic neck muscles a common symptom of these conditions?

Answer: Neck and shoulder muscle tightness are normal in CFS/FMS, and in much of

our population in general.

3.

What form of magnesium do you suggest to patients?

Answer: Oxides and hydroxides are poorly absorbed, so magnesium glycinates or

chelates are good choices. For those who get diarrhea, sustained release

magnesium is awesome (see next answer).

4.

Are there any promising new treatments or forms of magnesium entering

the market that you endorse?

Answer: Though in general, magnesium glycinate (as is found in the Energy

Revitalization System vitamin powder) is the best " bang for the buck, " some

people get diarrhea from magnesium. For these folks, a special sustained release

magnesium (made by Jigsaw Health) has been a wonderful blessing. A little bit

more expensive than other good forms, but people love it!

Hope this is helpful.

Love and Blessings,

Dr. Teitelbaum