Many people use magnesium supplements to help ensure overall good health, and some take prescription magnesium at the recommendation of their doctors. If you are taking magnesium for any of these reasons, it is important to be aware that it is possible to overdose on it. With this in mind, you can take steps to prevent a magnesium overdose, such as following the supplement label's or your doctor's instructions, choosing a form that your body can readily absorb, and visiting nutrition websites for detailed information about dosages.
One of the best ways to avoid a magnesium overdose is to follow the instructions on the supplement container to ensure that you do not take more than the amount typically considered safe. If your doctor has prescribed magnesium for you, however, you will typically need to follow his instructions for the proper dosage. In fact, you may also do well to ask your doctor before you begin supplementing with magnesium, as he can provide the information you need to stay safe while using the supplement.
Though it is possible to take too much of a magnesium supplement, the type of supplement you choose can play a role in your level of concern. If you choose magnesium citrate supplements, for example, you may have less cause for concern since this form of the supplement is often easier for the body to absorb. Still, you will likely do well to follow the instructions on the label and stick to the recommended dosage amount, even if you are taking magnesium citrate.
You may also visit health and nutrition authority websites when you are trying to figure out how to avoid a magnesium overdose. Such websites can provide information about the recommended daily allowance of magnesium based on your gender and age as well as special situations such as pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, you can find details about the amount of supplementation that is recommended if you are trying to manage an illness or condition, such as severe headaches or premenstrual syndrome.
It is important to keep in mind that you are unlikely to suffer a magnesium overdose from the foods you consume. This is typically true even if you normally consume a lot of foods that naturally contain magnesium. Unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise, you can usually just concentrate on supplement and prescription magnesium dosages when you are trying to avoid an overdose.
