This deficiency can be hard to detect until levels become very low.
Your body can perform vital functions until the cells and bones run out of extra magnesium.
Symptoms arise when there is nothing left to tap into.
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Am I Getting Enough Magnesium?
Studies show that about 50% of the U.S. population does not get enough magnesium in their diet.
Those who are postmenopausal should continue to aim for 320 mg per day.
Levels vary slightly for pregnant and lactating people as follows.
Some types may be more appropriate for your condition and are better absorbed by the body than others.
Even though magnesium supplements are natural, they can cause side effects or interact with other medications or supplements.
For example, providers commonly give IV magnesium to pregnant people with preeclampsia to lower their blood pressure.
It is possible to take too much magnesium.
Testing for Low Magnesium
At-home vitamin deficiency testsare available.
The self-tests typically involve a finger-prick blood sample taken at home and mailed for analysis.
However, magnesium levels within the normal range do not necessarily mean you have enough magnesium.
These tests do not provide information about magnesium stores in the body.
Low levels may not cause symptoms initially, as the body borrows stored magnesium cells.
Most people get enough magnesium in their diet.
But, some people may need supplementation.
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