Magnesium - bit confused to take or not?

Hi, I have read in various research that magnesium containing tablets reduce T4 uptake from Levo but many on this site recommend taking extra magnesium- thoughts/advice anyone? Thanks

[Ruthi]

In an ideal world you would test your magnesium status before taking magnesium, but the normal serum magnesium test is meaningless since it is the mg in your cells that matters. There is a test, called magnesium rbc (for red blood cells) but its almost impossible to obtain on the NHS and not easy privately. You can also have a hair mineral analysis, and I am planning to do that myself once Xmas is paid for.

Magnesium deficiency is common with estimates that more than half the US population being deficient, and excess should be excreted via the kidneys. Mg may interfere with T4 uptake so its best to take supplements well away from your thyroid tablets. This is also true for iron. I take my thyroid tabs first thing, and mineral supplements including magnesium with my evening meal.

Some forms of magnesium can cause tummy upset. I take mg glycinate which also doesn't interfere with my sleep ( but that's a relatively rare problem, for most all magnesium aids sleep and relaxation!)

[Jackie]

HI The body is often short of magnesium but it is an electrolyte and strongly affects Potassium. Have a blood test , then if needed ( tiny range) it should be under a doctor with frequent blood tests.

Jackie

[Jackie]

Hi Forgot to say. It is in a lot of food, eat more of that the better.

Jackie

[foxglove in reply to Jackie]

Hi Jackie, how wise you are to recommend food sources for magnesium. I have always found mag "dodgy" but understand I it safe to use foods containing it

[Jackie in reply to foxglove]

Thank you.

Jackie

[greygoose in reply to Jackie]

Of course, in an ideal world, this would be the best solution. But hypos don't live in an ideal world and often have problems absorbing the nutrients from food. So, even with the best will in the world, and eating all the right things, we can still be magnesium deficient.

[Jackie in reply to greygoose]

Just have a blood test. I have one weekly and very reliable.

Jackie