Magnesium

What is Magnesium?

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, acting as a cofactor for over 600 enzymatic reactions including energy production (ATP), DNA/RNA synthesis, protein synthesis, and muscle/nerve function. About 60% is stored in bone, 39% in soft tissues, and only 1% in blood — making serum levels a poor indicator of total body stores.

What might a high or low Magnesium mean?

Magnesium deficiency is extremely common (estimated 50-80% of population) but underdiagnosed because serum magnesium only drops when deficiency is severe. Low magnesium contributes to muscle cramps, insomnia, anxiety, migraines, insulin resistance, hypertension, osteoporosis, and cardiac arrhythmias. Magnesium is required for vitamin D activation and potassium retention.

What is the typical reference range for Magnesium?

The general-population reference range shown here is 0.7 – 1.05 mmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Magnesium?

It may be higher with: Magnesium supplementation (glycinate, threonate, taurate best absorbed), Dark leafy greens, Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, almonds), Dark chocolate, Legumes, Epsom salt baths (transdermal, modest). It may be lower with: Diuretics (loop and thiazide), Proton pump inhibitors (long-term use), Alcohol, Diabetes (renal magnesium wasting), Chronic stress (cortisol increases excretion), Processed food diet (magnesium stripped in refining), Intense exercise (sweat losses), Aging.