A magnesium deficiency can have various causes.
- Increased magnesium loss: increased sweating (such as in athletes), but also diabetes or alcohol consumption can lead to an increased excretion of magnesium.
- insufficient magnesium intake: If mainly foods with low magnesium content or low bioavailability are consumed, the magnesium intake may be insufficient.
Long-term or chronic problems of the digestive tract can also be problematic for the intake of sufficient magnesium. This often results in reduced absorption and, in addition, increased loss via the stool.