Magnesium (serum) Blood Test

Magnesium is an important mineral needed for proper muscle, nerve, and enzyme function. It also helps the body make and use energy and is needed to move other electrolytes (potassium and sodium) into and out of cells. Most of the magnesium in the body is found in the bones and inside the cells. Only a tiny amount of magnesium is normally present in the blood.

This test can tell you if your magnesium levels are normal and whether you need to be eating more foods rich in magnesium to improve your levels. Magnesium is found in fibre-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, avocados, bananas, wholemeal bread and brown rice as well as in fish and meat. Too much magnesium is often caused by over-supplementation or by taking too many antacids or milk of magnesia.