What are signs of magnesium deficiency?
Written by
David Nelson
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Signs of magnesium deficiency typically present internally and worsen significantly. Your body signals to you when your magnesium levels dip too low. Identifying these initial warnings ahead of time can prevent serious issues. Symptoms occur because magnesium supports more than 300 biochemical processes critical for health. Deficiency affects neurological function, muscle control, and energy production.
Ongoing muscle problems indicate a possibility of inadequate magnesium. Severe calf or foot cramps, usually at night. Eyelid twitching or muscle spasms that suddenly happen. These problems occur due to the impairment of neuromuscular transmission. Magnesium prevents or regulates the amount of calcium that enters your muscles, so that your muscles will not contract uncontrollably. Increasing your levels can help resolve these neuromuscular issues.
Neuromuscular Symptoms
- Frequent muscle cramps especially in legs
- Involuntary eyelid or facial twitching
- Muscle weakness during routine activities
Psychological Signs
- Increased anxiety without clear triggers
- Heightened irritability and mood swings
- Mental fog affecting concentration
Energy & Sleep Issues
- Persistent fatigue unrelieved by rest
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Restless legs disrupting sleep quality
Cardiac irregularities necessitate immediate attention and a visit to a healthcare professional. The palpitations or skipped beats of the heart are a signal of an electrolyte imbalance. Magnesium stabilizes the heart rhythm and electrical activity. A deficiency will allow excess calcium to overstimulate the heart muscles. This causes an irregular heart rhythm that requires immediate correction. This is why any heart issue should always be addressed by a professional.
Testing verifies suspected magnesium deficiency. Blood tests test serum magnesium levels directly. RBC magnesium tests are a more accurate reflection of tissue status. Doctors may also order electrolyte panels to check the balance of calcium and potassium. Clinical evaluation is then used to link symptoms to test results for a valid diagnosis.
Read the full article: Discover Benefits Magnesium Supplements
