Magnesium is an essential mineral for good health. Over 300 biochemical reactions in the body that work to keep your immune system healthy, your heart working properly, and your muscles and nerves functioning normally require magnesium. Magnesium is necessary to regulate calcium levels in order to prevent overstimulation of nerves and muscles, and also aids in calcium absorption. Magnesium is found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables, however, a deficiency can develop from improper nutrition. Magnesium chloride supplements may help with deficiencies. Consult your doctor before taking magnesium chloride, as there are associated side effects and possible toxic drug interactions that may occur.
MSDS Toxicity Information
Material safety data sheets are valuable sources of information regarding the toxicity of chemical compounds in their pure form. The MSDS for magnesium chloride rates it as a slight health risk and warns that inhalation of magnesium chloride dust may cause irritation to mucous membranes. Additionally, ingestion of pure magnesium chloride may cause abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. In the case where bowel blockage exists and magnesium chloride cannot be eliminated from the system, calcium deficiency, central nervous system depression or lack of reflexes may be observed. Magnesium chloride may cause minor skin and eye irritation if directly exposed. There is no evidence of effects of chronic exposure.
Magnesium Deficiency
Because magnesium plays such a large role in maintaining healthy body processes, many side effects can occur with magnesium deficiency, such as muscle tension, soreness, cramps, fatigue and spasms. Deficiency also affects the heart and may result in increased heart rate, arrhythmia and irregular contractions. Magnesium deficiency may also result in headaches, elevated blood pressure, bone weakening, depression, vomiting, nausea and lack of appetite.
Who Should Take Magnesium Supplements
Adult females should aim for a daily dose of 310 to 320 mg of magnesium and adult males should be ingesting 400 to 420 mg per day, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Those who do not meet these requirements should look into taking magnesium supplements. Additionally, people who abuse alcohol, or have diseases that can inhibit magnesium absorption, such as Crohn's disease, may benefit from magnesium supplements. Magnesium chloride is a common supplement taken by those with possible magnesium deficiency.
Side Effects
While rare, certain side effects may occur when taking magnesium chloride supplements. These include flushing, fainting or dizziness; muscle paralysis; and trouble breathing. Diarrhea may occur as a side effect, but is not considered serious unless it does not subside as your body adjusts to the supplement. Allergic reactions to magnesium chloride may manifest as hives; severe dizziness; swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat; or difficulty breathing. Overdose symptoms are rare in those with normal kidney function but may include dizziness or fainting, blurred or double vision, severe drowsiness, increased or decreased urination, slow heartbeat, depression, irritability, cramps, trouble breathing, or coma.
Before Taking Magnesium Chloride
Inform your doctor about any allergies you may have to magnesium chloride, or if you have stomach disorders such as ulcers, are dehydrated, or have kidney disease. As of 2011, it is not known whether magnesium chloride is harmful to an unborn baby or whether it passes through breast milk and can harm a nursing baby. Do not use laxatives or antacids without the advice of your doctor, as they may also contain magnesium and result in too much total magnesium intake. Inform your doctor if you are taking antibiotics, medications for osteoporosis or medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as these may affect magnesium chloride function. Have your blood and kidney function tested on a regular basis while taking magnesium chloride to ensure everything remains normal.
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