Is Magnesium Safe To Take During Pregnancy?
Many people choose to take a magnesium supplement. Some people want to increase their magnesium intake because they feel it may help with certain health conditions, while others simply want to avoid a magnesium deficiency. While you should always speak to a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements, you'll want to be extra careful if you are pregnant.
According to Livestrong, most pregnant women can benefit from a magnesium supplement. Magnesium is an essential nutrient that performs a vital role during pregnancy. Women who have a deficiency in this mineral while pregnant are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, premature labor, and other complications. However, taking too much magnesium can lead to negative side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Women should limit their magnesium supplementation to 350 milligrams per day whether they are pregnant or not. If you are pregnant, be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any new supplements.
What to know about magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral for human health. It is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body and is necessary for good health (via WebMD). Magnesium is found naturally in green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It can also be taken as a supplement. Magnesium plays a role in many bodily functions, including maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, keeping heart rhythm steady, and supporting a healthy immune system. Magnesium also helps keep bones strong, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote normal blood pressure.
Mild magnesium deficiencies are relatively common and can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, irregular heartbeat, and muscle cramps. Magnesium supplements can help correct a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is generally safe to take but some people may experience side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal cramping (via Mayo Clinic). Magnesium can also interact with certain medications. Therefore, it is important to speak to a doctor before taking magnesium supplements.