The use of supplements to reverse deficiencies and promote health is common. Although they are typically safe for most healthy people, supplements may produce undesired effects when taken excessively. Magnesium, an important mineral in the body, is a commonly used supplement that may produce adverse health effects at high levels. Although hypercalcemia is not a reported symptom of taking too much magnesium, other adverse symptoms are.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important and abundant mineral in the body. It is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions and found mostly inside cells and bone. Some of its common roles include aiding muscle and nerve function, and promoting bone and immune health. In addition, it supports cardiovascular function by regulating heart rhythms and blood pressure. Magnesium is also known to play a role in blood sugar levels, energy metabolism and protein synthesis.
Dosage and Sources
The recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, for magnesium varies depending on age and sex. Males ages 19 to 30 require 400 mg per day, while males older than 30 require 420 mg per day. For females, the RDA is 310 mg per day for ages 19 to 30 and 320 mg per day for women older than 30. Food sources of magnesium include green vegetables, spinach, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes. In addition, magnesium is found in tap water and some over-the-counter laxatives and antacids.
Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia is caused by elevated ionized calcium levels in the blood. It can be a serious condition when serum levels are significantly high. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, cardiovascular problems and kidney failure. The main causes of hypercalcemia include cancer and abnormally elevated levels of parathyroid hormone, or PTH.
Hypercalcemia and Magnesium
Excessive magnesium use is not associated with hypercalcemia although some of the symptoms are similar. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements indicates that magnesium toxicity can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, loss of appetite, weakness and cardiovascular problems. Indulging in magnesium-rich foods is fine, but excessive use of supplements, magnesium-containing laxatives or antacids can result in toxicity. The tolerable upper intake level is 350 mg per day for individuals age 9 and older. Although magnesium is not associated with hypercalcemia, excessive levels of other necessary nutrients, such as vitamins D and A, are.
Precautions
Although magnesium is easy to obtain, take it as advised and under the guidance of a knowledgeable health-care practitioner. If you suspect you are deficient, talk to your doctor or nutritionist. She will help you determine the best course of action for your needs.
References
- Office of Dietary Supplements; Magnesium; 2009
- "Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice"; Disorders Involving Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium; Sharon M. Moe, M.D.; July 2008
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