Magnesium is an important nutrient that supports immune system functioning and helps protect the body against cardiovascular diseases. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency rarely surface among populations in developed countries, but concern is growing that many people may not have sufficient body stores of this metal. Surveys show that most Americans do not receive a minimum daily requirement of magnesium in their diets.
Magnesium is absorbed from foods by the intestines, before the circulatory system transports it to the body's tissues. Less than one-half of ingested magnesium normally is taken up in this way.
Health issues affecting the digestive tract may impair magnesium absorbance. For example, gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease can limit magnesium uptake. The kidneys normally limit urinary excretion of magnesium, a function that can help make up for low dietary intake. However, alcohol abuse and certain medications can affect this balance and thereby lead to magnesium depletion.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include vomiting, fatigue, and loss of appetite. More severe cases can include symptoms such as muscular cramps, seizures, and coronary abnormalities.
Magnesium insufficiency also can affect the body's ability to absorb other cations, including calcium and potassium, and can lead to other health complications. Good sources of dietary magnesium include leafy green vegetables, potatoes, nuts, and seeds.
Which of the following labels best describes the previous passage?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The passage delves into the relationship between magnesium intake and health outcomes, highlighting how deficiencies in magnesium can lead to various health issues. It discusses how different factors, such as gastrointestinal disorders or dietary habits, can cause magnesium depletion and its subsequent effects on the body. This focus on exploring the cause-and-effect connections between magnesium levels and health conditions aligns with the characteristics of a cause and effect essay, making choice C the most appropriate. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the passage does not focus on comparing different concepts, providing definitions, or persuading the reader of a particular viewpoint.
Nokea