What nutrient deficiency is characterized by extreme restlessness?

From the Guidelines

Vitamin B12 deficiency is characterized by extreme restlessness, among other symptoms, as it affects the nervous system and can lead to neuropsychiatric manifestations. When the body lacks sufficient vitamin B12, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including cognitive difficulties, eyesight problems, and abnormal blood count findings, as noted in the study published in the BMJ in 2024 1. The common symptoms and signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, as outlined in Box 1 of the study, include difficulty concentrating or short-term memory loss, which can be described as "brain fog" and may contribute to feelings of restlessness.

• Key symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
  • Cognitive difficulties, such as difficulty concentrating or short-term memory loss
  • Eyesight problems related to optic nerve dysfunction, including blurred vision
  • Abnormal findings on a blood count, such as anaemia or macrocytosis To address a vitamin B12 deficiency, supplementation or dietary changes may be necessary, with a focus on increasing intake of vitamin B12-rich foods, such as meat, fish, and dairy products, or considering supplements, especially for individuals with restricted diets or absorption issues, as guided by the study 1.

From the Research

Nutrient Deficiency Characterized by Extreme Restlessness

• The nutrient deficiency characterized by extreme restlessness is magnesium deficiency 2, 3, 4.
• Magnesium plays a crucial role in the functions of the central nervous system, and its deficiency can lead to various symptoms, including restlessness, anxiety, and autonomic dysfunction 3.
• Magnesium deficiency can be caused by various factors, such as inadequate dietary intake, excessive loss due to certain medical conditions, and increased elimination due to stress 2, 4.
• The clinical manifestations of magnesium deficiency can be diverse, including neuromuscular irritability, cardiac arrhythmias, and increased sensitivity to digoxin 4.
• Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may be beneficial in relieving symptoms of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder, although the evidence is not conclusive 5.

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

• Restlessness 3
• Anxiety 3
• Autonomic dysfunction 3
• Neuromuscular irritability 4
• Cardiac arrhythmias 4
• Increased sensitivity to digoxin 4

Causes of Magnesium Deficiency

• Inadequate dietary intake 2, 4
• Excessive loss due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders or renal diseases 4
• Increased elimination due to stress 3
• Certain medications, such as loop and thiazide diuretics, aminoglycosides, and cisplatin 4