Magnesium supports muscles, nerves, heart rhythm, blood sugar control and bone health.
- Normal range (adults)
- 1.7–2.2 mg/dL (0.7–0.91 mmol/L)
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not usually needed
- Also called
- Serum Magnesium, Mg, Mag, S.Magnesium, Blood Magnesium
Magnesium normal range
| Group | mg/dLConventional units: US, South Asia | mmol/LSI units: UK, Europe, Australia, international |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 1.7–2.2 | 0.7–0.91 |
Your report may use either unit system; labs in the Gulf often print both. Ranges also vary slightly between laboratories, so the range printed on your own report is the one to go by.
Why is the Magnesium test done?
It is checked for muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, low potassium or calcium, and in people on diuretics or acid-reducing medicines.
What does a high Magnesium level mean?
High magnesium is uncommon and usually linked to kidney disease or magnesium-containing medicines.
Common causes
- Kidney disease
- Magnesium-containing antacids or laxatives
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Avoid magnesium supplements, antacids and laxatives unless prescribed
What does a low Magnesium level mean?
Low magnesium can cause cramps, twitching, fatigue and irregular heartbeat, and makes low potassium and calcium harder to correct.
Common causes
- Diarrhoea
- Diuretics and long-term acid-reducing medicines
- Alcohol
- Uncontrolled diabetes
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Eat nuts (almonds, cashews), seeds, whole grains, legumes, leafy greens, dark chocolate and bananas
When should you see a doctor?
See a doctor for palpitations or severe cramps.
Last updated
This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, so always compare your result with the reference range printed on your own report, and discuss abnormal results with your doctor.