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Magnesium

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Price and inventory may vary from online to in store.
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Price and inventory may vary from online to in store.

Magnesium Supplements at Walgreens


Magnesium is a key mineral in the body. Magnesium helps more than 300 different enzymes do their jobs in the body, and it also helps with muscle contraction and heart rate. It is found in many foods and in some medications, such as antacids . It’s also available in supplement form, and magnesium supplements can be purchased in stores or online at Walgreens.


What does magnesium do for the body?

Magnesium plays many important roles in the body and helps more than 300 enzymes carry out their functions, including building proteins and bones, managing blood sugar and assisting with nerve function. About half of the magnesium in the body is stored in the bones, and the rest is found in certain tissue throughout the body. Not consuming enough magnesium can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and abnormal heart rate. Older adults, people who abuse alcohol, and people living with conditions that decrease magnesium absorption are all at greater risk for magnesium deficiency.


What is magnesium citrate?

Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium that is typically used as a laxative to treat constipation . It may come in the form of softgels or powders and should only be used on a short-term basis. Speak with your healthcare provider before taking magnesium citrate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney disease or experience stomach pain. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and be cautious not to exceed the recommended dose. Your pharmacist or healthcare provider can help answer any questions you have about magnesium citrate.


How much magnesium should I take?

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies based on age and sex. Adolescent and adult women should consume between 310 and 360 milligrams (mg) daily, and between 350 and 400 mg if pregnant. Adolescent and adult men should aim for 410 to 420 mg. Children should consume between 30 and 240 mg, depending on their age. The most magnesium-rich food is leafy green vegetables, but magnesium can also be found in foods such as nuts, seeds, and some fortified foods like breakfast cereals. Magnesium supplements can be a good option for people who have trouble getting enough magnesium from their diet.


What form does magnesium come in?

Magnesium is available as a supplement in forms such as magnesium oxide, citrate, and chloride. Medicines such as antacids and laxatives may also contain magnesium hydroxide. Supplements can come in many forms, including tablets, softgels, powders, and gummies. All of these forms of magnesium supplements are available for purchase in stores or online at Walgreens.


What are symptoms of magnesium deficiency?

While most Americans do not consume the recommended amount of magnesium, the effects are usually minor and don’t usually lead to symptoms. This is because the kidneys will retain more magnesium before excreting it if the body is not getting enough. However, prolonged magnesium deficiency can lead to symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and weakness. Some health conditions, alcoholism, and certain medications can also lead to magnesium deficiency. Speak with your healthcare provider if you are worried about your magnesium intake.


Who should take magnesium supplements?

Most people can get proper amounts of magnesium by eating a healthy diet full of green vegetables and nuts and seeds. Magnesium supplements can be a good option for those who have trouble getting enough magnesium from their diet, or for those with certain conditions that make absorption difficult. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if supplements are the best choice for you.


Does magnesium help you sleep?

There is some limited evidence that suggests magnesium can make it easier to fall asleep and can improve sleep quality. Magnesium plays a role in sleep regulation, but more research is needed to determine how beneficial magnesium supplementation is for improving sleep. Very low levels of magnesium have been associated with poor sleep, anxiety and depression . If you have trouble sleeping, your healthcare provider can give you more information about magnesium and other potential treatments.


Does magnesium help with constipation?

Certain forms of magnesium are used to treat constipation on a short-term basis. Magnesium citrate can be used for this purpose, and some laxatives contain magnesium hydroxide to help ease constipation. Too much magnesium can have a laxative effect in any form, so be careful not to exceed the recommended dose of magnesium when taking supplements.


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