About Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral and electrolyte involved in numerous biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. It plays a crucial role in energy production, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolysis.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
1.8 - 2.2 mg/dL
Women's Optimal Range
1.8 - 2.2 mg/dL
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or excessive intake from supplements, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and cardiac disturbances.
Low
Low levels may be associated with muscle spasms, weakness, or even cardiac arrhythmias, often due to inadequate dietary intake or absorption issues.
Symptoms
High
May include confusion, abnormal heart rhythms, muscle weakness, hypertension, and fatigue.
Low
Can include tremors, muscle cramps, seizures, and fatigue.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- sanoff, A., Weaver, C. M., & Rude, R. K. (2016). Suboptimal magnesium status in the United States: Are the health consequences underestimated? *Nutrition Reviews*, 74(3), 146–168.
- öber, U., Schmidt, J., Kisters, K. (2015). Magnesium in prevention and therapy. *Nutrients*, 7(9), 8199–8226.
- Nicolantonio, J. J., O'Keefe, J. H., Wilson, W. (2018). Subclinical magnesium deficiency: A principal driver of cardiovascular disease and a public health crisis. *Open Heart*, 5(1), e000668.
- lpe, S. L. (2013). Magnesium in disease prevention and overall health. *Advances in Nutrition*, 4(3), 378S–383S.
- stitute of Medicine. (1997). Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. *National Academies Press*.