Magnesium is an essential mineral that your body needs in order for your muscles, bones, heart, nerves and immune system to function properly. Magnesium is an essential nutrient that must be provided by the diet. A diet low in magnesium, certain medications and medical conditions can cause a deficiency. If you are at risk of a deficiency, magnesium supplements can help you get the right amount of daily magnesium. However, high doses of magnesium can put you at risk for serious side effects, so talk to your doctor before taking magnesium supplements.
Maximum Daily Amount
One important reference value is known as the tolerable upper intake levels, or UL. For your safety, the Institute of Medicine establishes the UL for all dietary supplements that should not be exceeded. UL is the maximum dose of magnesium supplement you can take in one day. Adults should not take more than 350 milligrams per day of magnesium supplements. Your doctor can determine the appropriate amount to supplement your diet.
Benefits for Dietary Deficiency
Taking certain medications to treat cancer, blood pressure and bacterial infections for a long period of time can deplete your levels of magnesium. If diabetes is not well controlled through diet or medications, it can cause excessive loss of magnesium in urine. Research shows a high percentage of alcoholics and recovering alcoholics have very low blood levels of magnesium. If you have Crohn's disease, gluten sensitivity, inflammation of the stomach or have had gastric or stomach surgeries, your body may not be fully absorbing magnesium, which can cause deficiency. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, or NHANES, confirm that the diets of older adults and seniors diets are low in magnesium. Talk to your doctor to determine your need for a magnesium supplement.
Excessive Amounts and Side Effects
Doses that exceed the maximum daily amount can cause side effects including nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, mental confusion and irregular heartbeats. Laxatives and antacids contain magnesium. Taking large amounts of antacids or laxatives everyday can lead to excessive amounts of magnesium and, eventually, to toxicity. For your health and safety, tell your doctor about all medications, including all over-the-counter medications, that you are taking.
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