Asst. Prof. Ece Güler
Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology
Editorial note
Map of Health content is prepared with an evidence-based approach. References are provided for transparency.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an urgent medical concern, seek immediate care.
"Magnesium and its derivatives have effects on the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, reproductive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and neurological systems."
THE ROLE OF MAGNESIUM AND ITS DERIVATIVES IN THE BODY

What is Magnesium?

Magnesium is one of the essential minerals needed for the body to stay healthy. It is found in many natural foods such as milk, yoghurt, wholemeal foods, green leafy vegetables, legumes, but can also be added to some fortified foods such as breakfast cereals. Magnesium preparations can be divided into two categories: Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and non-FDA approved. However, magnesium is also widely used as an over the counter (OTC) product. When it is intended to be given as a multivitamin-mineral supplement, there are various salt forms including magnesium aspartate, magnesium citrate, magnesium lactate, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulphate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium chloride, which are more easily absorbed by the body.
Magnesium is the fourth most common cation in the body. About 50% is found in bone, 25% in muscle and the remainder in soft tissue, serum and red blood cells. Like other electrolytes, it can be found in the body in ionised, protein-bound or anion-bound forms. The most active of these forms is ionised magnesium. The balance of magnesium in the body is provided by the intestine, bone and kidney. Similar to calcium, magnesium is absorbed through the intestine, stored in the bone and excreted through the kidneys. If the magnesium level in the body decreases, more magnesium will be absorbed from the intestines to compensate for this deficiency.

The Role of Magnesium in the Body

As with other electrolytes, the role of magnesium in the body is varied and complex. Magnesium's mechanism of action depends on which organ system it is involved in. It is mostly intracellular and is the second most common intracellular cation after potassium. It has effects on gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, reproductive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and neurological systems in the body.

Role of Magnesium in Metabolic and Cardiovascular Functions

It plays a vital role in more than 300 reactions involving metabolism. Magnesium is involved in hormone-receptor binding, muscle contraction, neural activity, neurotransmitter release, vasomotor tone, and cardiac excitability. It is necessary for the active transport of potassium and calcium across the cell membrane. The proper functioning of ATP, the energy source of our body, depends on magnesium. It facilitates defecation by providing osmotic retention of fluids as a result of oral use. It is also used in over-the-counter antacids. Magnesium, which acts as a natural calcium channel blocker, is a cofactor of Na-K-ATPase pump. It also helps to control atrioventricular node conduction. Therefore, hypomagnesaemia can cause myocardial excitability resulting in ventricular tachycardia and arrhythmias.

Neuromuscular and Tocolytic Effects of Magnesium

Magnesium depresses the central nervous system while producing anticonvulsant effects. It blocks peripheral neuromuscular transmission by inhibiting acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions. It stimulates calcium reuptake by the sarcoplasmic reticulum, causing muscle relaxation and vasodilatation, reduces calcium in uterine muscle and is thus used as a tocolytic in preterm labour.

Role of Magnesium in the Endocrine and Respiratory System

Magnesium is a cofactor of parathyroid hormone synthesis. Therefore, if hypomagnesaemia occurs in the body, hypoparathyroidism will also occur. Hypoparathyroidism can lead to calcium depletion and eventually osteopenia or osteoporosis. The effect of magnesium on the respiratory system is relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle. The cause of smooth muscle relaxation is unclear. Magnesium is thought to exert this effect by inhibiting the release of calcium, histamine or acetylcholine.

The Role and Effectiveness of Magnesium in Migraine Treatment

Analyses in migraine patients usually show hypomagnesaemia. Although the use of magnesium in these patients is currently limited, treatment of the disease with additional magnesium intake is considered to be both a cheap and simple option for patients. However, hypermagnesaemia may be seen in patients since the dose required for treatment is above the daily requirement. For this reason, the American Academy of Neurology and the American Headache Society have stated that magnesium therapy is ‘probably effective’ in preventing migraine.

Hypomagnesaemia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Magnesium administration to individuals can occur in a variety of ways. Dietary intake is the main source of magnesium for a healthy individual. Although the recommended daily intake varies according to gender and age, a normal serum magnesium level of 1.8 to 2.2 mg/dL is accepted. If the serum magnesium concentration is below 1.8 mg/dL (hypomagnesaemia), oral magnesium salts, intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) magnesium sulphate may be given in treatment. Hypomagnesaemia may result from inadequate magnesium consumption or decreased renal or gastrointestinal absorption. However, chronic diarrhoea, proton pump inhibitor therapy, excessive alcohol consumption and diuretic use may also trigger hypomagnesaemia. Low levels of other electrolytes, such as hypokalaemia or hypocalcaemia, may also cause hypomagnesaemia. Therefore, symptoms of hypomagnesaemia include hyperreflexia, tremor and muscle fasciculations. Patients may also experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and weakness. In severe hypomagnesaemia below 1.25 mg/dL, generalised tonic clonic seizures may occur.

Hypermagnesaemia: Causes, Symptoms and Management

A serum magnesium concentration above 2.6 mg/dL is called hypermagnesaemia. Symptoms include vasodilatation causing skin rashes, hypotension, hyporeflexia and respiratory depression. Magnesium concentrations above 6 mg/dL may include electrocardiographic (ECG) changes, PR prolongation, QRS widening and peak T waves. When levels are above 15 mg/dL, cardiac arrest occurs. Hypermagnesaemia is less common than hypomagnesaemia. The major cause of hypermagnesaemia is renal failure, which causes increased magnesium retention. It can also occur with excessive use of magnesium-containing laxatives and antacids. Treatment includes calcium gluconate, diuresis or dialysis. For those with severe hypermagnesaemia, it is important to maintain circulatory and respiratory support. IV furosemide is the diuretic of choice as it increases magnesium excretion.

Magnesium Intake and the Role of Mineral Waters in Daily Magnesium Intake

The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies has determined the daily intake of magnesium for men and women aged 31-50 years as 320 mg and 420 mg. Kızılay Afyonkarahisar natural mineral water (200 mL) contains 16.57 mg/L magnesium. Thus, when this mineral water is drunk, 1% of the daily magnesium intake for women and 0.8% for men will be met. Kızılay Erzincan natural mineral water (200 mL) contains 317.45 mg/L magnesium. After the consumption of this mineral water, 20% of the magnesium required to be taken daily in women and 15% in men will be met.
With the vital role it plays on many systems in the body, magnesium has an important role in all our lives. For this reason, attention should be paid to dietary intake, attention should be paid to changes in serum levels and a doctor should be consulted in any symptoms seen due to a decrease or increase in serum concentrations.

Magnesium Derivatives, Intended Use, and Time of Use

Below are magnesium derivatives, their intended use, and times of use.

Magnesium Compounds, Purpose, When to Use?

-Magnesium Citrate

Used for general magnesium deficiency, constipation treatment, digestive issues, muscle cramps, and energy production.

For digestive issues, take in the morning; for muscle cramps, take in the evening, either on an empty stomach or after a meal.

-Magnesium Malate

Used for chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, laxative effects, and energy production.

It is recommended to take on an empty stomach or after a meal, in the morning or at noon.

-Magnesium Bisglycinate

Ideal for anxiety, stress, sleep disorders, migraines, and nervous system health.

Take at night before bed, either on an empty stomach or after a meal.

-Magnesium Oxide

Used for constipation, indigestion, and regulating stomach acid. It may also help prevent migraines and lower blood pressure and blood sugar.

For digestive issues, take as an antacid either on an empty stomach or after a meal; for constipation, take before bed.

-Magnesium Taurate

Effective for stress, anxiety, migraines, memory problems, blood pressure regulation, and blood sugar balance.

Take in the morning or evening, either on an empty stomach or after a meal.

-Magnesium L-Threonate

Used for treating stress, anxiety, improving sleep quality, enhancing brain health, and boosting cognitive functions and memory.

For cognitive function, take on an empty stomach or after a meal; for sleep, take before bed.

-Magnesium Sulfate

Used for relieving stress and muscle pain.

It is recommended to take orally in the morning on an empty stomach or to add to bath water for external use.

-Magnesium Chloride

Regulates stomach acid, helps relieve constipation, and eases heartburn.

Take during mealtime.

-Magnesium Carbonate

Regulates stomach acid, helps relieve stomach issues.

Can be taken before meals or when experiencing stomach discomfort.

-Magnesium Phosphate

Used to relax muscles and prevent muscle cramps.

Can be taken 2 hours after meals.

-Magnesium Lactate

Preferred for digestive system issues.

Can be taken 2 hours after meals.

-Magnesium Orotate

Helps with cellular regeneration and supports bone, heart, and brain function improvement.

Take with meals.

-Magnesium Aspartate

Used to address magnesium deficiency.

Take with meals.

-Magnesium Picolinate

Used to address magnesium deficiency.

Take with meals.


Asst. Prof. Ece Güler
Asst. Prof. Ece Güler
Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology

1. Kostov K. Effects of Magnesium Deficiency on Mechanisms of Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes: Focusing on the Processes of Insulin Secretion and Signaling. Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Mar 18;20(6) 

2. Xiong J, He T, Wang M, Nie L, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Huang Y, Feng B, Zhang J, Zhao J. Serum magnesium, mortality, and cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Nephrol. 2019 Oct;32(5):791-802. 

3. Moslehi M, Arab A, Shadnoush M, Hajianfar H. The Association Between Serum Magnesium and Premenstrual Syndrome: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2019 Dec;192(2):145-152. 

4. Chenard CA, Rubenstein LM, Snetselaar LG, Wahls TL. Nutrient Composition Comparison between the Low Saturated Fat Swank Diet for Multiple Sclerosis and Healthy U.S.-Style Eating Pattern. Nutrients. 2019 Mar 13;11(3).

5. Swaminathan R. Magnesium metabolism and its disorders. Clin Biochem Rev. 2003 May;24(2):47-66. 

6. Cox AG, Marshall SA, Palmer KR, Wallace EM. Current and emerging pharmacotherapy for emergency management of preeclampsia. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2019 Apr;20(6):701-712. 

7. Guess J, Hubel K, Wiggins A, Madigan CG, Bunin J. Recurrent Torsades with Refractory QT Prolongation in a 54-Year-Old Man. Am J Case Rep. 2018 Dec 20;19:1515-1518. 

8. Karimi N, Razian A, Heidari M. The efficacy of magnesium oxide and sodium valproate in prevention of migraine headache: a randomized, controlled, double-blind, crossover study. Acta Neurol Belg. 2021 Feb;121(1):167-173. 

9. Veronese N, Demurtas J, Pesolillo G, Celotto S, Barnini T, Calusi G, Caruso MG, Notarnicola M, Reddavide R, Stubbs B, Solmi M, Maggi S, Vaona A, Firth J, Smith L, Koyanagi A, Dominguez L, Barbagallo M. Magnesium and health outcomes: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational and intervention studies. Eur J Nutr. 2020 Feb;59(1):263-272. 

10. Garber A, Rao PM, Rajakumar C, Dumitrascu GA, Rousseau G, Posner GD. Postpartum Magnesium Sulfate Overdose: A Multidisciplinary and Interprofessional Simulation Scenario. Cureus. 2018 Apr 07;10(4):e2446. 

11. Institute of Medicine (IOM). Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes: Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D and Fluorideexternal link disclaimer. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1997.

FAQ

Magnesium supports core functions such as energy metabolism, nerve and muscle function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. It also contributes to bone structure, and a substantial share of body magnesium is stored in bone…

Magnesium is widely found in fiber-rich foods. High contributors typically include seeds (e.g., pumpkin, chia), nuts (almonds, cashews), leafy greens (spinach), legumes (beans, lentils), and whole grains. Yogurt and some fish can also add m…

There is no single “best” magnesium for everyone—your goal and tolerance matter. A practical principle is that forms that dissolve better in liquid tend to be absorbed more completely. Citrate, lactate, aspartate, and chloride often show hi…

Magnesium deficiency can occur due to low intake, poor absorption, or increased losses through the kidneys. Symptoms can range from nonspecific issues—muscle cramps or twitches, irritability, poor sleep, fatigue, and low appetite—to more se…

Daily magnesium is not automatically beneficial—dose and source matter. Magnesium from foods is generally safe because the body regulates absorption. With supplements, excess intake most often causes gastrointestinal effects such as diarrhe…

The “cost” has two parts: health impact and the cost of mismanagement. In health terms, inadequate magnesium may worsen neuromuscular complaints, reduce sleep quality, and lower overall well-being. A major hidden cost is misattribution—trea…

There is no single perfect time—your goal and stomach tolerance guide timing. If you have a sensitive stomach, taking magnesium with food can reduce the risk of cramps or diarrhea. For sleep support, many people prefer evening use because i…

Magnesium is not a direct weight-loss agent. Sustainable fat loss depends on energy balance, diet quality (protein and fiber), sleep, stress, and physical activity. Magnesium may help indirectly if a deficiency is contributing to poor sleep…

Magnesium is most commonly discussed as supportive for muscle cramps, twitching, and in some people, tension-type headache patterns. But “pain” is broad, and magnesium is not a universal fix. Low back pain, for example, may relate to postur…

Products like Magneral are essentially magnesium supplements intended to help meet magnesium needs. What matters most is the magnesium form (oxide, citrate, etc.), the elemental magnesium amount, and added ingredients—these influence tolera…

In general, magnesium and vitamin D can be taken together, and magnesium plays a role in vitamin D metabolism. That said, it does not mean everyone needs to supplement both. If symptoms persist during vitamin D use—such as cramps, sleep iss…

Magnesium’s “sleep effect” is usually indirect—through muscle relaxation, stress modulation, and correcting deficiency—rather than a direct sedative action. Many people prefer well-tolerated forms such as magnesium glycinate (a chelated for…

Magnesium content in mineral water varies widely by brand and spring source, so the most accurate method is reading the label. Even within the same country, some waters contain only a few mg/L, while others can reach 50–120 mg/L or more. Lo…

Before choosing a magnesium form for fatigue, it’s crucial to assess the real cause. Iron deficiency, low B12 or vitamin D, thyroid disorders, depression/anxiety, sleep apnea, and insufficient calories/protein are often more common drivers.…

Saying tea “directly lowers magnesium” is usually an overstatement, but indirect effects may exist. High tea/caffeine intake can increase urine output in some people, potentially influencing mineral balance. More practically, heavy tea drin…

This depends on your country’s reimbursement lists and can change over time. Magnesium products may be classified as prescription medicines or as over-the-counter supplements, with different coverage rules. The most reliable approach is to …

The easiest strategy is spreading magnesium-rich foods across the day rather than relying on one item. Example: oatmeal plus yogurt/kefir and a handful of almonds at breakfast; legumes or whole-grain options at lunch; leafy greens and whole…

Claiming magnesium directly “makes you more beautiful” isn’t scientifically precise. However, magnesium may support factors that indirectly influence appearance—sleep quality, stress balance, and muscle/energy regulation. If someone is trul…

In general, yes. Vitamin C is water-soluble and commonly used alongside magnesium without issues. Two practical considerations: (1) stomach tolerance—vitamin C can cause heartburn in some people, and magnesium can cause diarrhea at higher d…

Evening use is common for two reasons: (1) it’s easy to attach to a wind-down routine, and (2) any perceived muscle relaxation may feel more useful at night. But it’s not a rule. Some forms like citrate can stimulate bowel activity, making …

The “fastest” approach must still be safe and sustainable. Start with food: seeds (pumpkin, chia), nuts, legumes, whole grains, and leafy greens can rapidly improve daily intake. Next, address barriers—ongoing diarrhea, malabsorption issues…

A medium banana is a supportive, not top-tier, magnesium source. It typically provides around ~30 mg of magnesium, with variation by size and type. Since adult daily needs are in the hundreds of milligrams, a banana won’t cover requirements…

Magneral is a magnesium-containing product intended to support magnesium intake. What matters is the elemental magnesium amount listed on the label, the magnesium form (oxide/citrate, etc.), and the recommended use. In practice, magnesium m…

Magnesium may help some people feel it’s easier to fall asleep, usually through indirect pathways—muscle relaxation, stress modulation, and correcting deficiency—rather than a strong sedative effect. Responses vary widely. If insomnia is dr…

Memory is shaped more by a “brain-health ecosystem” than by any single supplement: sleep, physical activity, glucose control, B vitamins, omega-3s, stress management, and cardiovascular health are key. Magnesium supports nervous system func…

It depends on the spring source. Labels usually show magnesium as mg/L, so multiply by the bottle volume. For example, if a water has 50 mg/L magnesium, a 200 ml bottle provides ~10 mg and a 500 ml bottle provides ~25 mg. Some waters contai…

“Avoid” is often better framed as “use caution.” The highest-risk group is people with impaired kidney function, because magnesium is cleared by the kidneys and can accumulate. Those prone to diarrhea (e.g., IBS-D) may not tolerate higher d…

Choosing magnesium “for weight loss” often targets the wrong problem. Magnesium is not a fat burner. However, during dieting, if you experience cramps, sleep disruption, or constipation, form choice can be goal-based: citrate may help const…