Magnesium Supplements: Who Should Be Careful?
Magnesium is an important mineral that supports normal muscle and nerve function, blood pressure, and heart rhythm. But taking too much magnesium from supplements can cause problems.
Two groups that need extra caution
1. People with kidney problems
Healthy kidneys remove excess magnesium from the body. When kidney function is impaired, magnesium can build up and, at very high levels, cause serious problems such as low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, or abnormal heart rhythms.
2. People taking certain medications
Magnesium supplements can interfere with some antibiotics and osteoporosis medicines. Some diuretics and long-term acid-reducing medicines can also affect magnesium levels.
For adults, the upper limit for magnesium from supplements and medications is generally 350 mg per day, unless a healthcare professional recommends otherwise. This limit does not include magnesium naturally found in food.
Bottom line: Magnesium can be beneficial when needed, but more is not always better. If you have kidney problems or take regular medication, check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a magnesium supplement.
