Magnesium is an essential mineral vital for many bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, cardiovascular health, and bone strength. However, not everyone obtains sufficient magnesium from their daily diet. Certain groups face a higher risk of deficiency due to increased bodily needs, reduced absorption, or greater excretion of the mineral.

Older adults

According to Eating Well, the body's ability to absorb magnesium in the intestines gradually declines with age, while the kidneys may excrete more of this mineral. Many older adults eat less due to reduced appetite and difficulty chewing or swallowing. Prolonged use of certain medications, such as diuretics or acid reflux medication, can also lower magnesium levels in the body.

If this nutrient deficiency persists, older individuals may experience fatigue, muscle cramps, heart rhythm disturbances, and impaired muscle and nerve function.

Individuals with digestive diseases

Magnesium is primarily absorbed in the small intestine; therefore, digestive tract diseases can reduce the body's absorption capacity. People with inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, chronic diarrhea, or those who have undergone partial stomach or intestinal surgery are at high risk of magnesium deficiency. When the intestinal lining is damaged or food passes quickly through the intestines, the body cannot absorb enough magnesium from food.

Sweet leaf is rich in magnesium and should be added to the diet. *Photo: Bui Thuy*

Pregnant women

During pregnancy, the body's magnesium needs increase to support fetal development and maternal changes. This mineral is involved in the formation of bones, muscles, and the nervous system of the fetus. If the diet does not provide enough magnesium, or if pregnant women experience morning sickness and poor eating habits, the risk of deficiency increases.

Additionally, increased blood volume and metabolic changes during pregnancy also elevate magnesium needs beyond normal levels. Pregnant women should prioritize magnesium supplementation through a balanced diet and only use supplements when prescribed by a doctor, according to The Times of India.

Unbalanced diets

Regular consumption of processed foods, fast food, and refined grains, coupled with a low intake of green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains, means the amount of magnesium consumed does not meet the body's requirements. Excessive dieting or long-term restriction of many food groups also increases the risk of deficiency. Everyone should maintain a diverse diet, rich in natural foods, to ensure sufficient nutrient intake.

By Le Nguyen (Compiled)