Magnesium supplementation during pregnancy may be able to reduce growth restriction of the fetus and pre‐eclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy), and increase birthweight.
Many women find that by restoring their magnesium levels through diet and supplementation, morning sickness symptoms can reduce. Our blood sugar levels can dip during pregnancy and with this dip can come the feeling of morning sickness.
Magnesium deficiency is rare, but signs include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia, muscle twitching, poor memory, irregular heartbeat, and weakness.
Mag should not be given for longer than seven days, as long-term mag therapy can cause low calcium in the baby's bones.
Other benefits of magnesium supplementation during pregnancy
While there is some conflicting data, research supports the notion that magnesium supplementation may be beneficial for boosting mental health and helping to prevent postpartum depression and anxiety.
Treating insomnia during pregnancy can be a challenge, with few safe prescription options available. One promising option is magnesium, which has been shown to improve sleep quality, particularly in cases of restless-legs syndrome, and is safe in doses up to 360mg per day in pregnant women.
Diabetes mellitus is likely to be the most common cause of hypoMg in pregnancy. A Medline review using the terms 'hypomagnesaemia', 'magnesium' and 'pregnancy' indicated that GS was the most common condition associated with hypoMg in case studies.
For babies, magnesium is important for healthy growth.
It supports the baby's teeth and bones and plays a huge role in development thanks to its involvement in the nervous system.
Which form of magnesium is best for pregnancy? Most forms of magnesium are safe in pregnancy, but we would recommend magnesium bisglycinate, chloride, or citrate as they are well absorbed and have a low risk for causing diarrhea.
In some people, magnesium might cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other side effects. When taken in very large amounts (greater than 350 mg daily), magnesium is POSSIBLY UNSAFE.
In most cases, magnesium starts working within a week, since it's a fast-acting nutrient. You need to take it consistently to reduce anxiety and help you relax.
Common adverse effects of magnesium sulphate include nausea, vomiting, flushing, hypotension, muscle weakness, paralysis, diplopia, CNS depression and hyporeflexia. Areflexia occurs with total serum magnesium of 8 to 10mmol/l.
Magnesium supplements should be taken with meals. Taking magnesium supplements on an empty stomach may cause diarrhea.
Magnesium can be taken at any time of the day. Many people prefer to take supplements earlier in the day, such as with breakfast or lunch. Taking your magnesium supplement with a meal can also help prevent any stomach upset.
Magnesium deficiency is diagnosed via a blood test and sometimes a urine test. Your doctor may order the blood test if you have symptoms such as weakness, irritability, abnormal heart rhythm, nausea and/or diarrhoea, or if you have abnormal calcium or potassium levels.
High doses of magnesium from supplements or medications can cause nausea, abdominal cramping and diarrhea. In addition, the magnesium in supplements can interact with some types of antibiotics and other medicines.
"Research has shown that magnesium supplementation may affect the brain functions that help lower stress and anxiety," Gorin says. It works by helping your body kick into the "rest and digest" state, or by activating your parasympathetic nervous system.
The claimed benefits of magnesium supplementation range from boosts in everyday wellness — better sleep, increased energy levels and improved mood — to specific health benefits, such as lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease and improvement in migraines.
Magnesium deficiency during pregnancy is associated with a higher health risk for both mother and newborn, including restricted fetal growth, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and pre-eclampsia.