Magnesium is an important mineral found in many foods. It helps make energy and keeps your muscles and nerves working. Magnesium also helps keep your bones strong and your heart beating steadily. A balanced diet usually gives you enough magnesium. However, some people may not eat enough foods with magnesium. This can cause a deficiency, which can be seen in different signs. In this article, we will discuss 10 signs that your body might be low in magnesium.

1. Muscle Cramps and Spasms

Magnesium helps your muscles relax after they contract. Without enough magnesium, your muscles may tighten too much. This can cause cramps and spasms. If you have sudden, painful muscle cramps, it could be a sign of low magnesium.

2. Fatigue and Weakness

Your body uses magnesium to make energy. If you do not get enough, you may feel very tired or weak. Even if you sleep well, you might feel low on energy. This persistent tiredness can be a sign that your magnesium level is low.

3. Mood Changes and Anxiety

Magnesium helps control chemicals in your brain that affect your mood. Low magnesium levels can change your mood and may cause anxiety or irritability. If you feel more anxious or notice sudden mood changes, consider that low magnesium might be a factor.

4. Sleep Problems

Magnesium plays a part in helping you sleep. It calms your nerves and makes it easier for you to fall asleep. When you do not have enough magnesium, you might have trouble sleeping or staying awake at night. Significant research has shown regular sleep problems can signal a magnesium deficiency. That is why sleep experts or other healthcare specialists always prescribe that individuals with insomnia take a magnesium supplement nightly.

5. Irregular Heartbeat

Your heart needs magnesium to beat in a steady rhythm. Magnesium helps manage the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. If you notice your heart beating too fast, too slow, or with extra beats, it might be due to low magnesium levels.

6. High Blood Pressure

Magnesium helps relax the muscles in your blood vessels. This relaxation helps keep your blood pressure normal. Without enough magnesium, your blood vessels may tighten, which can raise your blood pressure. High blood pressure is another sign that your body may need more magnesium.

7. Frequent Headaches

Some studies show a link between low magnesium levels and headaches. Magnesium helps control the chemicals in your brain that can cause pain. If you have headaches or migraines often, a lack of magnesium might be a reason.

8. Numbness and Tingling

Magnesium is important for the proper function of your nerves. Low levels can affect how your nerves send signals. This may lead to numbness or a tingling feeling in your hands and feet. If you feel these sensations without a clear cause, low magnesium might be involved.

9. Weak Bones

Roughly 60% of the body’s total magnesium is in the bones. In particular, magnesium works with calcium to keep the bones strong. When you do not have enough magnesium, your body may not use calcium properly. Over time, this can make your bones weaker. Weak bones and a higher risk of fractures can be signs of a magnesium shortage.

10. Digestive Issues

Magnesium helps keep your digestive system working smoothly. It helps control the muscles in your stomach and intestines. If you do not get enough magnesium, you may experience constipation or other digestive problems. These issues can be another sign that your body is low in magnesium.

How to Boost Your Magnesium Levels

If you notice these signs, you might want to check your magnesium intake. You can add more magnesium-rich foods to your diet. Some good sources include:

Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other greens have high levels of magnesium.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are good choices.
Whole Grains: Brown rice and whole wheat bread can help boost your magnesium.
Legumes: Beans and lentils provide magnesium and other nutrients.
Fish: Some types of fish contain magnesium.

In some cases, your doctor may suggest magnesium supplements. Do not take supplements without speaking to a healthcare professional first.

Takeaways

Magnesium is a key mineral that supports many body functions. Muscle cramps, fatigue, mood changes, sleep problems, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and frequent headaches can all be signs that your body is low in magnesium. If you see these signs, it is a good idea to examine your diet and discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.