Magnesium in Human Health and Nutrition

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for an adult male is 420 mg of magnesium per day, and 320 mg for an adult female (Clinical Nutrition Service, NIH). Magnesium deficiency is rare if a well-balanced diet is consumed that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Potable water can also contribute significant amounts of Mg to the diet especially in hard-water areas however, softened water is depleted in magnesium. 

The symptoms of magnesium deficiency in humans follow a similar pattern to that in animals and include confusion, disorientation, loss of appetite, depression, muscle cramps and spasms, tingling, numbness, arrhythmia, and seizures. 

Extra magnesium may be required by individuals with conditions that cause excessive urinary loss of Mg, such as chronic malabsorption or severe diarrhea. Certain medications can also cause the kidneys to excrete excessive Mg, such as diuretics, and Cisplatin, which is used as a chemotherapeutic agent for cancer, as well as certain antibiotics. 

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