What are Magnesium Supplement Side Effects?

A number of magnesium supplement side effects can occur when this mineral is taken in excessive portions. The type of symptoms that surface may depend on a person's general health. Diet and how much of the supplement is used can also come into play. Some of the side effects include diarrhea, low blood pressure, and an abnormal heartbeat.

Due to a variety of ailments, there may be instances when additional forms of magnesium need to be integrated into a person's diet. Magnesium supplements seem to help many people with heartburn and indigestion. In fact, some over-the-counter medications contain magnesium as a key ingredient. Other reasons magnesium supplements are used for may be to relieve menstrual cramps, as a stool softener when constipation is a factor, and to treat osteoporosis.

Even though this dietary supplement has several positive aspects, it can also produce undesirable symptoms if inappropriately used. Magnesium supplement side effects are likely to happen when too much of this mineral is consumed over an extended period of time. If this is the case, diarrhea is a common symptom. Other side effects that can be linked to overconsumption of the supplement are upset stomach and vomiting.

Low blood pressure, sluggish breathing, and an abnormal heartbeat are more severe forms of magnesium supplement side effects. In the worst case scenario, coma and death may even occur. These serious conditions could happen when significant quantities are consumed and too much magnesium builds up in the body. People with certain kidney problems may also have difficulty removing magnesium from the body. In these cases, magnesium supplements should not be used.

When small amounts of the mineral are taken orally, magnesium supplement side effects usually do not occur. This is often true when a physician prescribed injection form is administered in the recommended quantity. The daily dosage generally considered safe seems to range between 100 milligrams and 300 milligrams for most adults. Pregnant and breast feeding women are likely to consume slightly higher magnesium levels. Amounts over 400 milligrams may be considered a possible health risk unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor.

Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals that can be found in the human body. In addition, magnesium is naturally present in foods like spinach, broccoli, and legumes. Dairy products, meats, and nuts also contain substantial quantities, as do high fiber foods. Due to the abundance of magnesium already available in foods, taking extra forms of the mineral may not always be necessary unless a magnesium deficiency is present. A health professional may be able to offer assistance in determining whether magnesium supplements are appropriate or if it is best to avoid them.