What Happens When Your Body Runs Low on Magnesium?

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Many people don’t realise they may have a magnesium deficiency. This “silent epidemic” affects millions worldwide, with 60% of adults not meeting the average dietary intake (ADI), and you might be one of them.

Your body signals low magnesium levels with symptoms such as poor short-term memory, visual difficulties, confusion, headaches, and poor focus.

Swipe up to know what can lead to low magnesium levels and how to overcome them.

Why Should You Care About Magnesium?

Magnesium is one of the many minerals needed for over 300 biochemical reactions in your body.

Without it, your body can’t function optimally. Here’s what magnesium supports:

  • Muscle movement and nerve signals
  • Heart rhythm and blood pressure
  • Strong bones
  • Blood sugar balance
  • Protein production

Are You Getting Enough Magnesium?

The daily need of magnesium for women is 320 mg/day, and for men, it’s 420 mg/day.

When your magnesium levels are low, it isn’t immediately apparent. That’s because your body pulls more magnesium from your bone reserves to maintain normal levels.

Your body usually whispers the signs of low magnesium levels in the form of:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Poor appetite

However, more serious signs include:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Tingling or numbness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Insomnia 
  • Migraines
  • Anxiety

Low levels can happen due to poor diet, gut issues, kidney problems, certain medications, or heavy alcohol use. Older adults are especially at risk.

According to the Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, around 44% people with diabetes have magnesium deficiency. Low magnesium levels can lead to poor blood sugar management and complicate diabetes. So, monitor your magnesium levels if you’re

Where to Get Magnesium From?

You can get magnesium through various natural foods rich in this mineral, such as:

  • Spinach and other leafy greens
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Beans and whole grains
  • Bananas
  • Dark chocolate

You can also pair a banana with toast and MuscleBlaze peanut butter to conveniently get your daily dose of magnesium.

Can You Have Too Much Magnesium?

Too much magnesium can happen if you’re overusing supplements or magnesium-based laxatives, especially in people with kidney disease. Symptoms of excess magnesium are:

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Muscle weakness
  • Trouble breathing

Since low and high magnesium signs may seem similar, it is advised to consult your doctor first and check your magnesium levels before making any dietary changes or adding supplements.

To Sum Up

When the body is low in magnesium, it can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, mood changes, and poor sleep, affecting overall daily functioning. Since magnesium plays a key role in muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production, maintaining adequate levels is essential. Including magnesium-rich foods in your diet: such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and even options like the best Indian peanut butter– can be a simple, tasty way to support healthy magnesium intake and keep your body functioning smoothly. If you’re experiencing symptoms or considering supplements, consult your doctor first.