Signs you may have a magnesium imbalance
Magnesium — the “calm mineral” your body quietly depends on every single day.
Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, magnesium supports energy production, muscle function, nerve health, hormone balance, blood sugar regulation, mood stability, and restful sleep. It’s one of the most essential — yet commonly depleted — nutrients, especially in times of stress, physical exertion, pregnancy, postpartum, or hormonal shifts.
Modern lifestyles often challenge our magnesium stores. Chronic stress, processed diets, high caffeine or alcohol intake, certain medications, and gut health issues can all contribute to gradual depletion. And while many people reach for magnesium supplements, balance is key — both deficiency and excess can create imbalances.
Food-first strategies remain a foundational way to support your magnesium levels. Leafy greens, pepitas, almonds, avocado, dark chocolate, legumes, and whole grains provide a daily source of this essential mineral. However, in times of greater demand or when dietary intake falls short, targeted supplementation may provide additional support — especially for those navigating menstrual irregularities, perimenopause, pregnancy, anxiety, muscle tension, or fatigue.
Prioritising magnesium isn’t just about correcting a deficiency — it’s about supporting your whole system: your nervous system, hormones, sleep, and daily resilience. Sometimes the smallest shifts — like adding magnesium-rich foods or mindful supplementation — create the biggest ripple effects for your long-term wellbeing.
When you nourish your minerals, you nourish your calm.
Look out for these signs of deficiency.
Fatigue
Weakness
Decreased appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Numbness or tingling
Muscle contractions
Muscle cramps
Personality changes
Irregular heartbeat
Tremors
Seizures
Symmetrical dry scaly dermatitis
Look out for these signs of excess.
Acute:
Hypotension
Nausea or vomiting
Facial flushing
Retention of urine
Depression
Lethargy
Chronic:
Muscle weakness
Difficulty breathing
Extreme hypotension
Irregular heartbeat
Cardiac arrest
Increase or limit these foods.
Dark leafy greens
Walnuts
Dark chocolate
Pumpkin seeds
Sunflower seeds
Spinach
Bananas
Potatoes
Whole-grains
Legumes