Blood tests that are usually done periodically, in fact do not reflect the accuracy of magnesium levels in the body. This is influenced by the proportion of magnesium in the body. As much as 60% of magnesium in the body is stored in bones while 36 % is stored in soft tissues such as muscles.
The need for magnesium varies from age to age, adults need 300 to 420 mg per day. And magnesium is one of the causes of the number one mineral deficiency in the body. This means that if magnesium needs are not met, the body will easily lack minerals.
According to experts, Dr. Vora in this case stated that sufficient magnesium intake in the body will help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality to be better, reduce headaches due to migraines and several heart health conditions, one of which is high blood pressure.
Dr. Vola added, magnesium intake can also be obtained by consuming one ounce of almonds, half a cup of boiled spinach which can meet 19 percent of the daily intake and one ounce of chia seeds which can meet 26 percent of the daily intake.
Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai, points out that blood test results may not accurately reflect magnesium levels in the body as most of the magnesium is stored in the bones and soft tissues while a small percentage is found in the bloodstream.
“This makes it difficult to diagnose magnesium deficiency just through a standard serum blood test, as even if the blood test shows normal magnesium levels, the body can still be deficient in cellular or tissue compartments,” adds Dr. Hema Malini Aiyer, senior consultant, pathology, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Delhi.
Some tests like the magnesium retention test or the red blood cell magnesium level test can only give an accurate picture of magnesium stores in the body. These tests are not widely used in clinical practice.
It is better to consider the patient’s symptoms and dietary intake than relying on blood test results when assessing magnesium levels. Magnesium deficiency can lead to several health issues like muscle cramps, fatigue, anxiety and cardiovascular problems.
Dr. Agarwal suggests managing and maintaining overall magnesium levels in the body by including healthy food in the diet. Some foods rich in magnesium such as boiled spinach, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, quinoa, brown rice, lentils, oatmeal, and dark chocolate should be consumed in large quantities to maintain magnesium levels in the body.
If you want to take magnesium supplements, you should consult your doctor first. Make lifestyle adjustments such as keeping your body hydrated, exercising regularly, managing stress well, and limiting processed foods.