Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in more than 300 enzymatic processes, including muscle and nerve function. A test gives insight into the magnesium level in your blood.
Interpreted by BIG-registered doctors
Achtergrond
Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and plays a role in more than 300 enzymatic processes, from energy production and protein synthesis to muscle and nerve function and blood pressure regulation. Approximately 60% of the magnesium in the body is stored in the bones, 39% in soft tissues and muscles, and only 1% in the blood.
Because the vast majority of magnesium is intracellular (inside the cells), a serum magnesium measurement (such as this test) cannot always reliably rule out a deficiency. For a more sensitive measurement of cellular status, the "intracellular magnesium" or "RBC magnesium" test exists, which we do not currently offer. For most questions, however, the standard serum measurement provides an initial indication.
In het kort
300+ enzymes
Cofactor in countless processes
Muscle function
Important for contraction and relaxation
Nerve function
Regulates signal conduction
Bone health
60% of magnesium is in bones
Veelvoorkomende redenen om te meten
Hieronder enkele situaties waarin een meting van Magnesium inzicht kan bieden.
A test gives a snapshot of your serum magnesium level.
Intensive exercise increases the requirement for magnesium; testing can be part of performance monitoring.
Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation. Complaints of cramps are often associated with magnesium status.
Magnesium is sometimes associated with sleep quality; a test gives insight into whether the blood level is sufficient.
Those taking magnesium supplements can test whether this has influenced their serum level.
Certain medications (such as diuretics and long-term proton pump inhibitor use) can affect magnesium status.
Wat betekent uw uitslag
Magnesium is measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). Important: serum magnesium does not always reflect the magnesium status within the cells, a normal blood level does not 100% rule out a functional deficiency.
Low serum magnesium generally indicates a clear deficiency. Possible causes include insufficient intake, increased loss (for example due to certain medications or prolonged diarrhoea), or reduced absorption from the gut. Supplementation through diet or supplements is a common approach.
Serum magnesium within the reference range gives a reassuring picture for this marker. Bear in mind that this is a snapshot of blood magnesium, the vast majority of magnesium is located within the cells, and a functional deficiency at cellular level could theoretically still exist even with a normal serum value.
Elevated serum magnesium is rare and is sometimes seen with reduced kidney function or with excess intake of magnesium-containing medications or supplements. For significantly elevated values, our doctor provides explanation and context.
Hoe wij uw uitslag interpreteren
Our doctors interpret your magnesium level against the reference ranges and your personal context, lifestyle, medication use, and any known conditions.
Related tests
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Magnesium with a theme package or related markers.
Veelgestelde vragen
No, you do not need to fast for a magnesium measurement.
Serum magnesium measures the magnesium in the blood plasma, only 1% of total body magnesium. Intracellular magnesium measures the mineral inside the red blood cells and is more sensitive for detecting a functional deficiency. We measure standard serum magnesium.
Widely used forms include magnesium citrate and magnesium bisglycinate (chelated). Magnesium oxide is cheaper but less well absorbed. The choice depends on your goal and preference.
Good sources of magnesium include leafy green vegetables (spinach, chard), nuts and seeds (especially pumpkin seeds and almonds), legumes, wholegrains, dark chocolate, and avocado.
With healthy kidney function, excess magnesium is excreted in the urine. However, excessive supplementation can cause diarrhoea, often the first signal to reconsider the dose.
Yes, certain medications (especially diuretics, long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, and certain antibiotics) can affect magnesium status.
A single measurement is sufficient for initial insight. With active supplementation or as follow-up to a previously low value, re-testing after a few months is common.
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP or adjusting your diet, remains entirely your choice.
For €49 you receive your magnesium level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 business days. No referral required.
Order Magnesium for €49 →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Magnesium with other markers via Bloodworks Select. Blood draw costs are waived from €225.
Customer service
Available on weekdays from 9:00 – 17:00
