Magnesium deficiency can occur due to inadequate intake of magnesium, impaired intestinal absorption of the mineral, or excessive loss of it.
Having large amounts of magnesium can be lost by prolonged exercise, lactation, excessive sweating or chronic diarrhoea, kidney diseases, an overactive thyroid or low blood levels.
A magnesium deficiency is often associated with low blood levels of calcium and potassium and when deficient, an increased irritability of the nervous system including spasms of the hands and feet, muscular twitching or cramps can ensue.
