Magnesium is a crucial mineral in the body, involved in over 300 biochemical reactions. It plays a significant role in maintaining proper muscle and nerve function, supporting a healthy immune system, regulating heart rhythm, building strong bones, and controlling blood sugar levels. 

It also helps in the production of protein, bone development, and DNA synthesis. Despite being a vital nutrient, magnesium deficiencies are not as common as some other deficiencies. However, they can still occur, especially in certain populations or those with specific lifestyle habits or conditions.

When You Might Need to Worry About Magnesium Levels

While magnesium deficiencies are relatively rare in healthy individuals, there are several factors and health conditions that could lead to insufficient magnesium levels.

Health Conditions

Kidney Disease 

Chronic kidney disease can impair magnesium balance because the kidneys play a major role in regulating magnesium levels. In this case, magnesium might accumulate in the body.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Conditions like Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can affect magnesium absorption in the digestive tract.

Diabetes 

Uncontrolled diabetes or insulin resistance can lead to increased magnesium excretion through urine. Magnesium plays a role in insulin function, and a deficiency may worsen blood sugar control.

Hypertension

Magnesium is often used to help manage high blood pressure, and low levels could contribute to increased blood pressure.

Medications 

Certain medications can either deplete magnesium in the body or affect its absorption. Some examples include:

Diuretics: These increase urine output, which can lead to loss of magnesium and other electrolytes.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for acid reflux or ulcers. PPIs can reduce magnesium absorption in the gut.

Certain Antibiotics Some antibiotics, especially those used to treat infections, may also cause magnesium depletion.

Dietary Habits

If your diet is low in magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains, you might be at risk for deficiency. Highly processed foods, common in modern diets, typically lack magnesium. People who follow restrictive diets (like vegan or vegetarian) or those with poor eating habits may also find it difficult to meet their magnesium needs.

Lifestyle Factors

High Alcohol Intake: Alcohol consumption can cause magnesium to be excreted in urine, and chronic drinking can lead to magnesium depletion.

Stress: Long-term stress can lower magnesium levels in the body, as stress increases the release of cortisol (a stress hormone) that can impact magnesium balance.

Physical Activity Excessive physical activity, especially endurance sports, can increase magnesium loss through sweat.


Felciya, is a Specialist Dietitian at The London Obesity & Endocrine Clinic. She has helped many patients overcome weight management barriers. ©Simplyweight


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