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Feb 24, 2025 IST 10:26:53

5 signs of magnesium deficiency that often go unnoticed

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. From muscle function to energy production, this nutrient plays a crucial role in the body. Magnesium deficiency, or hypomagnesemia, happens when the magnesium levels go lower than normal. This can be mild or severe. When the magnesium levels go down, your body waves signals. It is important to note these signs to prevent hypomagnesemia from worsening. Here are five subtle signs of magnesium deficiency that often go overlooked:
Muscle cramps and spasms
Muscle cramps

Involuntary muscle cramps or spasms are a crucial red flag. The frequent muscle cramps, twitches, or spasms, which sneak up at night, are a major hint of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium regulates muscle contractions by balancing calcium levels in the body. Without adequate magnesium, muscle cramps and tremors occur.

Feeling tired?
Magnesium deficiency
Do you feel tired all the time? Well, then it is time to check your magnesium levels. Feeling constantly tired, even after a good night’s sleep, could be a sign of low magnesium levels. Magnesium has a crucial role in energy production. This is why, when the magnesium levels go low, you experience sluggishness or brain fog. This symptom often goes unnoticed due to exhaustion. But if you feel fatigue very often, consult a doctor.
Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
Early warning signs of a stroke that often go unnoticed
An irregular heartbeat or feelings of a racing heart could be a sign of low magnesium. Heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, should not be dismissed. This mineral has a significant role in maintaining a steady heart rhythm by regulating the electrical activity of the heart. If palpitations persist, consult a doctor immediately, because severe magnesium deficiency can increase cardiovascular risks.

Mood swings and anxiety
depression

Yes, low magnesium levels can lead to mood swings. Unexplained irritability, anxiety, or mild depression are linked to magnesium deficiency. Magnesium supports neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influence mood. If mood changes persist, it is important to check your magnesium levels.

Poor sleep
Sleep

Are you struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? Well, then, magnesium deficiency might be to blame. Yes, that’s right. Magnesium has a calming the nervous system. It also promotes relaxation by regulating melatonin, the sleep hormone. In people who have low magnesium levels, insomnia or restless sleep is a common concern. How to compensate it? Eat magnesium-rich foods, or take supplements, only after consulting with your doctor.
**This news was published on Times of India on 2nd September, 2025.

 

 

 

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