Causes of Magnesium Deficiency in the Body

Understanding Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium is a vital mineral and electrolyte that plays a critical role in numerous biological processes within the human body. Since the body cannot produce magnesium on its own, it must be obtained through daily dietary intake. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 50–60% of the body's magnesium is stored in the bones, while less than 1% is found in the bloodstream. Detecting magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia) can be challenging, as it is not typically included in standard blood test panels.

Primary Causes of Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium deficiency arises when the body is unable to absorb sufficient amounts of the mineral from food or when it loses excessive amounts through the digestive tract or kidneys. Below are the most common causes:

1. Aging

As people age, their ability to absorb magnesium decreases, increasing the risk of deficiency.

2. Diabetes

High blood sugar levels can cause the kidneys to expel more magnesium. Individuals with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance are particularly susceptible. Additionally, diabetic ketoacidosis—a serious diabetes complication—can significantly lower magnesium levels.

3. Malnutrition

Conditions like bulimia, anorexia, or chronic vomiting can lead to insufficient dietary intake of magnesium. However, malnutrition is not typically the primary cause of deficiency in otherwise healthy individuals.

4. Alcohol Abuse

Chronic alcohol consumption disrupts the balance of electrolytes in the body, leading to excessive magnesium loss through urine.

5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

During pregnancy and lactation, the body's magnesium needs increase, which may lead to deficiency if not adequately supplemented.

6. Chronic Diarrhea

Ongoing diarrhea can deplete the body’s magnesium levels. Conditions such as Crohn’s disease increase this risk by affecting nutrient absorption in the intestines.

7. Organ Failure

Kidney failure, in particular, can result in the body losing more magnesium than it should, contributing to deficiency.

8. Certain Medications

Some drugs can promote magnesium loss or interfere with absorption. These include:

• Diuretics
• Antifungal medications
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Acid-reducing medications
• Hormonal treatments

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium supports over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body and is essential for nerve and muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and cellular energy production. Early symptoms of magnesium deficiency may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and general weakness

As the condition worsens, more severe symptoms can emerge, such as:

• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures

Diagnosing Magnesium Deficiency

If symptoms suggest a possible magnesium deficiency—or if a patient has diabetes or kidney issues—a physician may order a blood test. The most common diagnostic method is the Total Serum Magnesium Test, which measures magnesium levels in the bloodstream.

Treatment for Magnesium Deficiency

Treatment typically involves magnesium supplements and increased intake of magnesium-rich foods. In severe cases, intravenous magnesium may be required. Foods naturally high in magnesium include:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Fruits
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Nuts, especially almonds, cashews, and pistachios
• Spinach and broccoli
• Whole wheat bread and peanut butter
• Avocados, potatoes, carrots, rice, and yogurt
• Oats, beans, fortified foods, bananas, apples, and raisins

Animal-based sources include:

• Salmon
• Chicken breast
• Beef
• Milk

Improving Magnesium Absorption

To enhance magnesium absorption, consider the following lifestyle and dietary tips:

• Avoid high-dose zinc supplements
• Treat vitamin D deficiency
• Quit smoking
• Eat vegetables raw when possible
• Avoid calcium-rich foods two hours before or after magnesium-rich meals