In short
- Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of processes in the body, including muscle and nerve function and energy metabolism.
- You obtain magnesium from foods such as nuts, wholegrain products, green vegetables and legumes.
- A low magnesium level can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, muscle weakness or tingling.
- A deficiency can develop due to an unbalanced diet, certain medical conditions, intense exercise or the use of certain medications.
- A finger-prick blood test can be used to determine whether your magnesium level is within the normal range.
- A magnesium test can help identify a possible deficiency or an imbalance in mineral levels.
- The result is always assessed in combination with your symptoms and any other relevant blood values.
- Would you like to know whether you have enough magnesium? A magnesium test can provide quick and reliable insight into your magnesium status.
What does your body need magnesium for?
Magnesium is an important mineral that your body needs to function properly. It helps with energy production, the proper functioning of your muscles and nerves, and keeping your bones healthy. Magnesium also helps maintain a normal heartbeat and plays a role in regulating blood pressure.
How can you recognise a magnesium deficiency?
You may not notice a magnesium deficiency immediately because the symptoms are often vague. You may experience muscle cramps, particularly in your legs, or muscle twitching. You may also feel tired, become irritable more easily or experience headaches. In severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms may occur.
What causes a magnesium deficiency?
A magnesium deficiency can develop if you do not get enough magnesium from your diet. You can also develop a deficiency if your body does not absorb magnesium properly, for example due to intestinal problems. Certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption or excessive sweating can also cause your body to lose more magnesium.
Which foods are high in magnesium?
Magnesium is found particularly in wholegrain products such as wholemeal bread and brown rice, nuts (such as almonds and cashews), legumes (such as beans and lentils), green leafy vegetables (such as spinach) and dark chocolate.
What symptoms can be associated with low magnesium levels?
Low magnesium levels can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, muscle weakness, fatigue, tingling or a feeling of restlessness. In some cases, you may also experience abnormal heart rhythms or mood changes, such as irritability or low mood.
Who is at increased risk of a magnesium deficiency?
Some people are at greater risk of developing a magnesium deficiency. This includes older adults, people with diabetes, people with gastrointestinal problems, people who drink a lot of alcohol, and people who use certain medications, such as diuretics.
When should you consider having your magnesium tested?
It may be advisable to have your magnesium tested if you have symptoms that could indicate a deficiency, such as unexplained muscle cramps, fatigue or abnormal heart rhythms. If you belong to a higher-risk group, it may also be useful to have your magnesium level checked.
How can you correct or prevent a magnesium deficiency?
You can help correct or prevent a deficiency by eating a healthy and varied diet with sufficient wholegrain products, nuts, legumes and green vegetables. In some cases, your doctor may recommend magnesium supplements. Always consult your doctor before taking supplements.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, contact your doctor. je zorgen, neem dan altijd contact op met je huisarts.
