How Long Does Magnesium Stay in the Body? What Factors Affect It?

SadaNews - Magnesium, an essential mineral, helps the body perform its functions properly, starting from supporting muscles and nerves to maintaining regular heartbeats.

The duration that magnesium remains in the body depends on several factors, but most types of magnesium exit the body within one or two days, according to the website "VeryWell Health".

Duration of Magnesium in the Body

If you consume magnesium supplements or magnesium-rich foods, about half of it will remain in your body after roughly eight to nine hours. After another eight to nine hours, half of this amount will remain (25 percent of the original amount). This cycle continues until most of the magnesium is excreted from the body.

The body does not eliminate magnesium all at once; rather, a portion of it is stored in the bones and muscles, where it may remain for weeks or even months, depending on the body's needs and the rate at which it is consumed.

Factors Affecting the Duration of Magnesium

1. Form of Magnesium

Magnesium supplements are available in various forms, which the body absorbs differently. Common types of magnesium include: magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium aspartate, magnesium lactate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium sulfate.

Forms such as citrate, glycinate, aspartate, and lactate tend to be absorbed more effectively, which may keep magnesium in the bloodstream longer.

On the other hand, forms like magnesium oxide are absorbed less efficiently, meaning they raise magnesium levels in the body less and may exit the body faster.

2. Quantity You Take

High doses of some types of magnesium, like magnesium citrate, can lead to better absorption.

Typical dietary supplement doses range from 100 to 400 milligrams or more, usually taken once a day.

The recommended daily dose of magnesium for men is about 400 to 420 milligrams, while women are advised to take a daily dose of 310 to 320 milligrams.

3. Your Magnesium Levels

If your magnesium levels are low, your body will retain a larger quantity of it. However, if you have sufficient amounts, excess magnesium is typically excreted via urine.

The body regulates magnesium levels to maintain balance. Following a healthy, balanced diet with magnesium-rich foods, such as fish, nuts, whole grains, leafy vegetables, and others, helps ensure healthy magnesium levels.

4. Health Conditions and Medications

Some health issues may affect the body's ability to absorb or retain magnesium. Certain health conditions, like chronic diarrhea, kidney disease, or diabetes, may make it challenging for the body to retain magnesium.

Moreover, some medications can reduce magnesium absorption, including diuretics, antibiotics, and immunosuppressants.