Can you have too much magnesium?

Hello, I'm a health and nutrition expert with a strong background in biochemistry. When it comes to magnesium, it's important to understand that while it's an essential mineral for many bodily functions, there is a limit to how much your body can handle. Magnesium is vital for over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, including those involved in nerve and muscle function, blood sugar control, and the synthesis of proteins. It also plays a role in bone health and heart rhythm regulation. However, too much magnesium, especially in a short period, can lead to a condition called magnesium toxicity or hypermagnesemia. This is more common in individuals with kidney problems, as the kidneys are responsible for regulating magnesium levels in the body. Symptoms of magnesium toxicity can range from mild, such as nausea and vomiting, to severe, including irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, and even coma or death in extreme cases. It's also worth noting that absorption of magnesium from food is limited, which makes it less likely for someone to overdose on magnesium through diet alone. However, overuse of magnesium supplements can lead to toxicity. In summary, while magnesium is crucial for health, having too much magnesium can be harmful. It's important to consume magnesium through a balanced diet and to consult with a healthcare provider before taking supplements, especially if you have any health conditions or are taking medications that could interact with magnesium.

Doses less than 350 mg daily are safe for most adults. When taken in very large amounts, magnesium is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Large doses might cause too much magnesium to build up in the body, causing serious side effects including an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion, slowed breathing, coma, and death.