Everything You Need to Know About Magnesium Deficiency in Women, as Seen on Newsweek. 

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in our bodies, yet it’s often overlooked in daily nutrition. For many women, maintaining adequate magnesium levels is particularly important as it affects everything from energy levels and muscle function to bone health and mood. Despite its importance, women may not realise they’re deficient in magnesium, leading to a range of symptoms that can impact their overall wellbeing. We interviewed director of Hannah London Clinic, Dr Kaywaan Khan, to find out everything you need to know about magnesium deficiency in women — from the signs and symptoms to causes, risks, and effective ways to boost your intake. 

What are the warning signs that a woman is low on magnesium? 

“Low magnesium levels in women can manifest in a variety of symptoms which can be subtle or easy to overlook, if not identified by a qualified healthcare professional. Magnesium plays a large role in muscle relaxation and function, so when levels are low, this can cause increased muscle cramps, spasms or a feeling of weakness. This can also affect the digestive tract as magnesium helps stimulate peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the intestines. Without enough magnesium, these contractions are weakened, leading to slower transit time and potential symptoms of constipation. Fatigue and lethargy are also common with magnesium deficiency, as magnesium is essential for energy production within cells. 

As magnesium helps to regulate neurotransmitters that impact mood, other symptoms can be emotional alongside the physical impact of magnesium deficiency. As a result, women may experience anxiety, irritability or sudden mood changes. Additionally, magnesium helps to relax blood vessels and regulate blood flow to the brain. Magnesium deficiency can cause these vessels to constrict, and when coupled with emotional stress, this can result in headaches and migraines. 

Finally, chronic low magnesium levels have been associated with a heightened risk of conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis, all of which can negatively impact long-term health.” 

Should all women take magnesium supplements?  

“Not all women need to take magnesium supplements, but many can benefit from the increased intake. Specifically during periods of hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation, magnesium levels tend to decrease. This deficiency can lead to painful cramps, heightened fatigue, and mood fluctuations, all of which magnesium supplements can help alleviate by supporting hormonal balance. As well as this, women with PCOS commonly have higher levels of insulin which can cause symptoms such as weight gain and irregular menstrual cycles. Magnesium supplements can improve insulin resistance and help manage these symptoms of PCOS, but I would recommend booking in for a consultation with a PCOS specialist doctor first to receive specific guidance. At Hannah London Clinic, we treat various patients with PCOS, offering treatments such as skin tag removal, physiotherapy, laser hair removal, or acne treatment after a thorough 1-1 consultation. We created a PCOS membership at our Harley Street clinic designed to help you manage your PCOS, including events to attend, a supportive WhatsApp community and nutritional advice for weight management, as well as offering 50% off our treatments. 

Certain lifestyle factors, such as a diet low in magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds and whole grains can also contribute to deficiencies. Supplements can be beneficial for maintaining magnesium levels, without having to make major changes to your diet. While women can benefit from increased magnesium intake for health conditions, high stress levels, diet and digestion, they can also choose to supplement magnesium to support essential bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation, and bone health maintenance. Before adding any new supplements into your diet, it is essential to book in for a consultation with a GP first to ensure it is safe and supports your individual needs. If you’re experiencing chronic fatigue, they may recommend supplementing magnesium with other vitamins such as Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Zinc and Glutathione or suggest energy-boosting IV Infusion Therapy with a cocktail of these beneficial nutrients.” 

When should magnesium supplements be taken? 

“Some people find it beneficial to take magnesium at night-time as it can promote muscle relaxation to subsequently improve sleep quality. Magnesium also has a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help symptoms of insomnia or restlessness. On the other hand, taking magnesium in the morning can be helpful if fatigue is a concern, as magnesium supplements can boost energy levels. Speak to a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether you need to incorporate magnesium into your routine, based off your lifestyle and individual symptoms, if any. Booking in for a GP consultation can help you find the timing that works best for you. Always take magnesium with food to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.” 

Want to find out more? Read Dr Kaywaan’s full interview on Newsweek here: https://www.newsweek.com/do-women-need-take-magnesium-expert-verdict-1978440