- Magnesium is an important mineral involved in over 300 processes in the body that support protein synthesis, cardiac health, nerve health and more.
- Too much magnesium, especially from supplements or medicine, can have adverse effects.
- Those with pre-existing health conditions are most at risk.
Magnesium is an important mineral that aids in your natural processes, and it is crucial that you get enough of it. It has many benefits, from helping with muscle pain to regulating blood pressure. A lack of magnesium is associated with various diseases, so it is vital that you meet your needs. An easy way to do this is through foods like almonds, cashews, spinach, black beans, and peanut butter. However, some people struggle to meet their magnesium needs and often turn to magnesium supplements, which contain many different magnesium combinations. While supplements can be a great way to get your recommended dosage, they are more likely to lead to a magnesium overdose.
The Office of Dietary Supplements states that, “too much magnesium from food does not pose a health risk in healthy individuals because the kidneys eliminate excess amounts in the urine. However, high doses of magnesium from dietary supplements or medications often result in diarrhea that can be accompanied by nausea and abdominal cramping.” Therefore, it’s important to avoid overdoing it with your magnesium intake. Below are some of the reasons why.
Taking too much magnesium can result in a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, and in extreme cases, cardiac arrest. Animal studies have shown that dangerously high amounts of magnesium can potentially lead to poor bone metabolism. People with kidney disease are also cautioned against taking too much magnesium as it will be harder for the body to filter out the excess which could lead to the above-mentioned complications.
The most common symptoms of a magnesium overdose:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle Weakness
- Low Blood Pressure
- Facial flushing
- Retention of urine
- Depression and lethargy
Excessive overdosing can progress to:
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Extreme hypotension
- Irregular heartbeat
- Cardiac arrest
Fortunately for healthy adults getting their magnesium from a well-balanced diet, the risk of a magnesium overdose is low. Still, it is possible. If you notice symptoms of a magnesium overdose after taking supplements or medicine, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor before continuing. If you have pre-existing health conditions, it’s wise to speak with a doctor prior to taking a new supplement or medicine that may contain magnesium.
Magnesium is great for you, in the right doses. It helps your body carry out its natural processes. It’s important to get enough, but not too much, or else you run the risk of experiencing some of the above symptoms. You should be the most careful when getting your magnesium from supplements, as this is the hardest for your body to filter. Below, you will find our favorite Magnesium supplements based on their ingredients, formulations and customer feedback.
BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough
BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough offers the full spectrum of all seven types of magnesium specially formulated to reach every tissue in your body to provide maximum health benefits.
Puori M3 Organic Magnesium Capsules
Magnesium in bioavailable forms mixed with zinc, vitamin B6 and malic acid for optimal effect. Easy absorbable, effective dosage, no artificial ingredients and always 3rd party tested.