E83: Disorders of mineral metabolism

E83.4: Disorders of magnesium metabolism

We consume magnesium with food. The amount of magnesium in the body is influenced in particular by the kidneys, because magnesium is passed out through the kidneys. Kidney or intestinal diseases can cause the magnesium content in the body to drop. You may also have little magnesium in your body if you eat too little. You can have many different symptoms if you have too little magnesium in your body. For example, you may lose weight and have nausea. You may feel weak and depressed. You may shiver or have muscle cramps. You may also have an irregular heartbeat.

There are various reasons why you can have too much magnesium in your body. One cause is that the kidneys no longer work properly. In that case, the kidneys excrete less magnesium. If you have too much magnesium in your body, you may have different symptoms. You may have nausea or low blood pressure. You may feel weak or no longer be able to move your muscles properly.