The diagnosis
Whether the diarrhea is caused by an increased magnesium concentration can be determined by simple laboratory tests. By taking a blood sample it can be checked how high the magnesium content in the blood actually is. An increased supply of magnesium also increases the concentration in the blood.
This can be clearly shown by the blood results. However, if the concentration of magnesium is increased, it is not possible to say for sure whether this is due to an increased intake of magnesium from food or tablets. Reduced magnesium excretion can also be the cause. Magnesium is mainly excreted through urine and an increased magnesium concentration with a constantly low or normal magnesium intake can indicate a functional disorder of the kidneys. In this case further diagnostic steps must be taken.
How to avoid diarrhea after magnesium?
It is important to pay attention to the amount of magnesium in the supply. In most cases, a balanced, healthy diet can maintain the magnesium balance and only rarely leads to an increased or decreased concentration of magnesium in the body. Foods that contain a lot of magnesium include nuts, whole grain products and legumes.
To counteract a possible magnesium deficiency, one should first try to consume an increased amount of these food products. If, on the contrary, one has taken in too much magnesium, one should avoid them. Artificially supplied magnesium, for example in the form of tablets, should also be avoided or at least reduced in case of diarrhoea.
Can a magnesium deficiency cause diarrhoea?
A magnesium deficiency often manifests itself through very unspecific symptoms. These include muscle cramps, fatigue and diarrhea. Diarrhea is often not constant, however, but occurs alternately with constipation and nausea.
Anyone suffering from diarrhoea due to an existing magnesium deficiency should also bear in mind that the deficiency is further aggravated by the fact that the magnesium is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream during diarrhoea. If several of these symptoms occur and a magnesium deficiency is a possible cause, the deficiency should be corrected, as a deficiency can lead to serious complications. For example, cardiac arrhythmia, loss of consciousness or even severe weight loss can be triggered. The symptoms of a magnesium deficiency?
