Magnesium Deficiency and Fatigue: The Overlooked Blood Test That Matters
By Dr Lauren Holland | Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, London
Feeling tired, tense, or struggling with poor sleep? You might be missing one of your body’s most essential minerals – magnesium.
Although often overlooked, magnesium plays a role in over 300 biochemical reactions, including muscle function, nerve signalling, and energy production.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC), we see magnesium deficiency more often than many expect – especially in busy Londoners managing high stress, intense work schedules, or restrictive diets.
Why Magnesium Matters
Magnesium is vital for maintaining balance in your muscles, heart, and brain.
It regulates blood pressure, supports glucose metabolism, and helps convert food into cellular energy.
When levels drop, even slightly, the effects can be wide-ranging:
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Anxiety, irritability, or low mood
- Poor sleep or insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Headaches or migraines
Deficiency often develops gradually – and because the symptoms overlap with stress or hormonal changes, it’s rarely recognised without testing.
Who Is at Risk of Low Magnesium?
Some groups are more prone to magnesium deficiency, including:
- People with high stress or poor sleep habits
- Those taking antidepressants or diuretics
- Individuals consuming excessive caffeine or alcohol
- Patients with digestive conditions (Crohn’s, IBS)
- Athletes or people who sweat heavily
- Women with PMS or menopause-related symptoms
The Blood Test That Reveals the Truth
At MDC, we offer a Comprehensive Mineral & Electrolyte Profile that includes magnesium testing alongside calcium, zinc, and potassium.
This simple blood test provides a detailed picture of your body’s mineral balance and highlights whether fatigue or stress symptoms could be linked to deficiency.
Magnesium Test
Measures serum magnesium to assess muscle, nerve, and cardiac function.
Electrolyte Panel
Evaluates sodium and potassium – often altered by hydration or medication.
Vitamin D & B12 Levels
Checked alongside magnesium, as these nutrients interact closely in energy production.
Why Testing Beats Guessing
Taking supplements without confirming deficiency can cause imbalance or mask another problem (like low calcium or thyroid dysfunction).
MDC’s lab-verified testing helps ensure safe, evidence-based treatment rather than guesswork.
How MDC Supports You
Our approach focuses on precision and prevention:
- Results within 24 – 42 hours.
- Doctor-led consultations to explain your results.
- QC-validated testing under the Marylebone High Standard.
- Tailored nutrient and lifestyle plans for long-term health improvement.
Magnesium and Mental Health
Studies show a strong link between magnesium levels and mood.
Low magnesium may contribute to anxiety, irritability, and poor sleep quality – all of which can affect productivity and wellbeing.
Testing gives clarity and allows early correction before deficiency becomes chronic.
FAQs
Book Your Test Today
If you’re experiencing fatigue, cramps, or anxiety, a simple Magnesium and Mineral Balance Test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre can reveal the cause.
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
+44 7495 970109
Monday–Saturday | 08:00–16:00
5-minute walk from Baker Street Tube
Results within 24–42 hours | QC validated | Tested to the Marylebone High Standard
