As the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, magnesium is needed by every organ in the body for proper function. More than half of the body's magnesium stores are found in the bones, with the other half located within cells, tissues and organs, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium is responsible for hundreds of chemical reactions and regulatory processes and the function of many major body systems. Magnesium can be consumed from the diet but most Americans do not get enough of the mineral, according to the University of Maryland.
Magnesium Deficiency
A deficiency of magnesium is considered to be uncommon, even with many diets deficient in the mineral. The University of Maryland notes that some medical conditions can disrupt the delicate balance of magnesium levels within the body, causing temporary deficiencies. Signs of a magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and weakness. As magnesium deficiency worsens, the symptoms increase and may include numbness, tingling, muscle contractions and cramps, seizures, personality changes, abnormal heart rhythms and heart spasms, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. They also note that severe magnesium deficiency can result in low levels of calcium in the blood.
Overdosing
Overdosing on magnesium provided through the diet is rare. However, precautions should be taken if supplementing the diet with magnesium or taking medications that contain magnesium. Products used as laxatives or for other bowel problems -- including milk of magnesia and epsom salts -- should be taken as directed, as excessive quantities could lead to an overdose. According to the University of Maryland, overdoses of magnesium could cause serious problems, such as nausea and vomiting, decreased blood pressure or slowed heart rate and even coma or death.
Drug Interaction
Magnesium can interfere with some medications, and the use of magnesium supplements should be discussed with your physician before you start. According to the Linus Pauling Institute of Oregon State University, magnesium may decrease the effectiveness of some heart medications, medications used to treat osteoporosis and some antibiotics. The use of magnesium may also lower calcium levels in the body, which could lead to other medical problems.
Recommendations
The Office of Dietary Supplements suggests following the recommended dietary allowances for magnesium as developed by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. Male adults ages 19 to 30 should consume 400 mg per day and female adults should consume 310 mg per day. Magnesium supplementation may be indicated in patients with diabetes; alcoholism; chronic malabsorptive problems such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease; those taking certain medications such as diuretics, antibiotics and some chemotherapy drugs; as well as geriatric patients. If you have any of these conditions, your doctor will evaluate your individual magnesium needs and determine if supplementation is right for you.
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