Magnesium is a vital mineral that is involved in numerous body processes:

• Energy production.
• Muscle contraction.
• Nerve function.
• Maintaining bone strength.

It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports the immune system. Abnormal levels of magnesium, whether too high or too low, may indicate problems with nutrient absorption, kidney function, or chronic conditions.

Magnesium testing is suggested in case of signs of imbalance or to assess the general state of health, especially in the elderly.

Indications for a Test:

• Persistent muscle cramps or spasms.
• Repeated pathological fractures (fractures without injury).
• Chronic fatigue or weakness.
• Kidney symptoms : pain or frequent urination.
• Unexplained nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Prolonged constipation.
• Fast or irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).
• Uncontrolled diabetes or insulin resistance.
• Followed by conditions such as autism, fibromyalgia, or preeclampsia.

The test is also recommended during regular checkups for people over the age of 45, especially those at risk of heart disease, diabetes, or kidney problems.

The magnesium test is usually done by a blood test, from a venous sample. It can be included in comprehensive metabolic panels or carried out in a specific manner.

Common Test Methods:

• Serum Magnesium Test : Measures magnesium in the blood, the most used method.
• Urine test : Evaluate the amount of magnesium excreted by the kidneys.
• Hair or Nail Test : Evaluates long-term magnesium levels, useful for detecting chronic deficiencies.

Special Test Preparations:

• Avoid magnesium supplements 24 hours before the test unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• For a hair or nail sample, avoid recent cosmetic treatments (coloring or chemical products).

In the blood (mg/dL)

• Kids :
  • Up to 2 years: 1.6—2.7
  • 2 to 5 years: 1.6—2.6
  • 6 to 8 years: 1.6—2.5
  • 9 to 11 years: 1.6—2.4
  • 12 to 17 years: 1.6—2.3
• Adults (over 17) : 1,7—2,3

In the urine (mg/day)

• Normal level: 24 to 255 mg/day, depending on food intake.

note : The units of measurement and the normal ranges may vary between laboratories.

High levels (Hypermagnesemia)

High levels of magnesium can occur when the body builds up too much magnesium, often due to excess or an inability to eliminate it.

Causes:

• Dehydration : Increased magnesium concentration due to lack of water.
• Magnesium containing products : Excessive use of supplements, laxatives, or antacids.
• Kidney failure : The kidneys are unable to eliminate excess magnesium.
• Endocrine disorders : Hyperparathyroidism.
• Addison's disease : Dysfunction of the adrenal glands affecting magnesium.

Recommendations:

• Identify the underlying cause with your doctor.
• Reduce magnesium intake via diet or supplements, according to medical advice.
• Stay hydrated to promote elimination.
• Treat any associated kidney problems quickly.

Low levels (Hypomagnesemia)

Low magnesium levels are more common and often linked to lifestyle or health factors.

Causes:

• Diet low in magnesium : Low consumption of green vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
• Digestive disorders : Crohn's disease, celiac disease.
• Uncontrolled diabetes : Excessive loss of magnesium via the urine.
• Prolonged use of diuretics : Increases urinary magnesium excretion.
• Excessive alcohol consumption : Disrupts absorption and increases losses.
• Chronic diarrhea or vomiting : Significant loss of magnesium and other minerals.

Recommendations:

• Increase your magnesium intake through rich foods (spinach, almonds, avocados).
• Talk to your doctor about supplements if needed.
• Treat underlying digestive problems.
• Reduce alcohol consumption to avoid magnesium losses.
• Maintain good hydration.

Depending on the cause of the magnesium imbalance, consult:

• Neurologist : In case of impact on nerves or muscles (cramps, spasms).
• Nephrologist : For kidney disorders affecting the regulation of magnesium.
• Endocrinologist : In case of hormonal imbalances linked to magnesium.
• Gastroenterologist : If digestive disorders interfere with the absorption of magnesium.
• Nutritionist : To optimize your diet and prevent deficiencies.
• Cardiologist : If cardiac irregularities, such as arrhythmias, are linked to magnesium imbalances.

Proactively managing magnesium levels is critical to preventing complications and maintaining optimal health.