Is Magnesium Good for PCOS?

Dr Sandra
October 11, 2023
4 minutes
Magnesium and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: What You Should Know

Are you familiar with the incredible benefits of magnesium? This essential nutrient plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy body and is particularly beneficial for individuals with PCOS.


Uncovering Low Magnesium Status

Surprisingly, low magnesium intake is quite common, with many individuals failing to meet the recommended levels. Factors such as poor soil quality, intensive farming practices, and an inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables contribute to this deficiency. Excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and high-protein diets can also deplete magnesium levels. It's alarming to note that individuals with PCOS may be at an even higher risk of magnesium deficiency.


The Link Between PCOS and Low Magnesium Levels

There are several reasons why women with PCOS may have lower magnesium levels:

  •  Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance affects up to 70% of women with PCOS and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that individuals with insulin resistance and/or type 2 diabetes may excrete higher-than-normal amounts of magnesium in their urine. Magnesium deficiency may also be associated with the development of insulin resistance.
  • Medication Interference: Certain medications, including the contraceptive pill, antibiotics, diuretics, and proton pump inhibitors, can interfere with magnesium absorption. Women with PCOS who rely on hormonal therapies like the contraceptive pill may be particularly susceptible to magnesium absorption issues.
  • Dietary Factors: Inadequate magnesium intake can lead to various symptoms, such as headaches, weakness, tiredness, nausea, and loss of appetite. If left unaddressed, magnesium deficiency can result in more severe symptoms like numbness, tingling, muscle cramps, abnormal heart rhythms, and even seizures. Prolonged low magnesium intake also raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis.

How supplementation of Magnesium helps in PCOS?

Now that you understand the importance of magnesium for PCOS, how can you ensure you're getting enough? Let's explore some interactive ways to incorporate magnesium into your daily routine:

  • Magnesium- Rich Foods: Load up your plate with delicious and nutritious magnesium-rich foods! Think green leafy vegetables like spinach, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fish, meat, and dairy products. These natural sources of magnesium can help replenish your levels and support your overall well-being.
  • Magnesium Supplements: Sometimes, getting enough magnesium through diet alone can be challenging. In such cases, supplements can be a helpful addition.

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