Medically reviewed by Dr. Reina Punj, MBBS, PG Diploma in Endocrinology (University of South Wales), Lead Physician, Excelgenics Clinical Panel.
A Nutrient Gap Worth Knowing About
Tiredness that lingers. Sleep that doesn't refresh. Difficulty settling at the end of the day.
For many people these are put down to a busy life. Nutrition is only part of the picture, but magnesium is one of the more commonly under-consumed minerals, and it receives relatively little attention in nutrition conversations in India.
Nationally representative data on magnesium intake in India are limited, so it is not possible to say exactly how many Indians fall short. What we do know is that several features of modern Indian diets and lifestyles can make it harder to get enough magnesium from food.
For a fuller overview of forms, dosage and safety, see our Magnesium Supplements Guide.
Why Magnesium Is Not Just Another Mineral
Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems. It contributes to:
- Normal energy-yielding metabolism
- Normal nervous system function and normal psychological function
- Normal muscle function
- Normal protein synthesis and cell division
- Electrolyte balance
- Maintenance of normal bones and teeth
These statements describe magnesium's established nutritional roles, not any therapeutic effect.
Low dietary intake is commonly associated with tiredness, muscle cramps and restlessness. These are non-specific and can have many causes. If they persist, consult a qualified healthcare professional rather than assuming a deficiency.
Why Intake Is Often Low in India
- Refined, cereal-heavy diets: refined grains contain less magnesium than whole grains, and magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes and leafy greens are often eaten in small amounts
- Treated drinking water: reverse osmosis removes dissolved minerals, including the magnesium that some water naturally contains
- Alcohol: heavy, regular drinking increases magnesium loss through the kidneys
- Long-term medication: some medicines, such as proton pump inhibitors and certain diuretics, can lower magnesium levels. Discuss this with your doctor if it applies to you.
Why Blood Tests Are an Imperfect Guide
Less than 1% of total body magnesium is in the blood serum. The rest is held within cells, muscle and bone. Standard serum magnesium tests therefore reflect circulating levels rather than total body status, which is one reason dietary intake is worth attending to alongside test results.
Why the Form Matters
Magnesium supplements come in many forms. Magnesium oxide is common and inexpensive but poorly absorbed, and it is one of the forms more often linked to loose stools. Citrate is well absorbed but can have a laxative effect at higher doses in some people.
Magneva by Excelgenics uses magnesium bisglycinate, a chelated form chosen for absorption and tolerability.
Why Magnesium Bisglycinate?
- Magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine
- Generally reported to be gentle on digestion
- Organic, chelated forms are generally better absorbed than magnesium oxide
- Magnesium contributes to normal nervous system and psychological function
Each Magneva Tablet Provides
- 350 mg elemental magnesium, from 1,590 mg magnesium bisglycinate
- 1.9 mg vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl), which contributes to normal psychological function
- One vegan tablet a day; 30 tablets per pack
- Made under an FSSAI licence
Who Might Consider Magneva
- Adults whose diets are low in whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and leafy greens
- Professionals under sustained cognitive load
- Women navigating changing routines and life stages
- Athletes and physically active individuals
- Vegetarians with limited dietary magnesium intake
When to Expect a Difference
There is no fixed timeline, and some people notice no difference. Results depend on your diet, starting magnesium intake and overall health.
Using Magneva Safely
- Take 1 tablet a day, preferably 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, with water or a light meal.
- The NIH upper limit for magnesium from supplements is 350 mg a day for adults. Magneva provides 350 mg, so do not add other magnesium supplements.
- Possible side effects include loose stools, nausea and stomach cramps.
- If you have kidney disease, speak to your doctor first.
- Magnesium can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics (tetracyclines and quinolones) and bisphosphonates, so these need to be taken at a different time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
A Quiet Nutrient Worth Attention
Magnesium rarely announces itself, but its roles in energy, the nervous system and muscle function are well established. Addressing intake starts with diet, and a well-absorbed supplement can help where diet falls short.
References
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medication.
