A magnesium lab test (serum magnesium) is a common blood test, but it reflects only about 1 % of total body magnesium – most is stored in bones and cells. A normal serum level does not reliably rule out intracellular deficiency. Symptoms of low magnesium can include muscle cramps, fatigue, arrhythmias, or sleep issues. Elevated magnesium is rare but can occur with kidney disease or excessive supplementation. Evidence for routine magnesium testing in healthy individuals is weak; it is more useful in at-risk groups (e.g., diabetics, alcoholics, kidney patients) or when specific symptoms are present. Caveat: Interpretation should be done by a physician, as many factors (diet, time of day, medications) affect the result.
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