Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms: Can magnesium deficiency lead to infertility - here's what we know
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals that our body needs to stay healthy. It helps with muscle function, reducing immunity, nerve signals, bone strength, and keeping our heart steady.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
However, despite its importance, many of us are deficient in this mineral, since our diet is not conducive. However, can magnesium deficiency lead to infertility as well?Let's find out...
Relationship of fertility with magnesium
For both male and female fertility, magnesium is extremely important because it helps maintain a healthy blood supply to the uterus, and supports the production of progesterone, a hormone extremely important for pregnancy. Magnesium also plays a role in regulating reproductive hormones and reducing inflammation, which can affect ovulation and egg quality of the woman.
What does study say
A recent study involving infertile women found that supplementing with magnesium significantly increased levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian reserve and fertility potential. Higher AMH levels improve the chances of successful pregnancy, either natural, or assisted. Though magnesium deficiency alone may not be the sole cause of infertility, it can be an important factor.
Early signs of magnesium deficiency. Look out for these
Cramps
One of the most common early signs is muscle cramps or twitches.
Magnesium helps muscles relax after they contract. Without enough magnesium, muscles can become tight and cramp easily. You might feel night cramps, or small twitches under your skin, causing involuntary movements.
Weakness
We all feel tired once in a while. While regular tiredness is okay, feeling unusually tired or weak, can be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium plays a key role in energy production. When levels are low, your body may struggle to produce enough energy, leading to constant fatigue even after rest.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Numbness
Some people experience numbness or tingling sensations, especially in the hands and feet. This happens because magnesium helps nerves send signals properly. A lack of magnesium can cause nerve irritation or damage, leading to these sensations, that can be uncomfortable.
Mood changes
Low magnesium levels can cause increased anxiety, irritability, and even depression. If you notice mood swings or feel anxious without a clear reason, you might be deficient.
Irregular heartbeat
Magnesium helps keep your heart rhythm steady. Early deficiency can cause palpitations or irregular heartbeats. While this symptom is more serious and should be checked immediately, it often starts subtly, and hence is easily missable.
Loss of appetite
Lack of appetite, feeling full quickly or nauseous can also be early signs. These symptoms are often ignored because they seem like minor digestive issues but could indicate low magnesium.
How to increase magnesium intake
Alter your diet
Include these foods in your diet:
Spinach, kale, and other green leafy vegetables
Nuts like almonds, cashews, and peanuts
Seeds such as pumpkin, chia, and flaxseeds
Whole grains like brown rice and oats
Beans and lentils
Dark chocolate (in moderation)
Consider Magnesium Supplements
If your doctor recommends, you can take magnesium supplements. There are different types, such as magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium glycinate.
Your doctor will advise which type and dose are best for you.
Sources:
PMC Article on Magnesium and IVF Pregnancy Outcomes, 2015
ScienceDirect on Magnesium Deficiency and Pregnancy Complications
Natalist Blog on Magnesium Deficiency and Fertility
Journal of Pharmacy and Therapeutics on Magnesium Supplementation and AMH
Houston Fertility Center Article on Magnesium and Female Fertility
News-Medical.net on Minerals and Women's Fertility
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Citi upgrades Invitation Homes, downgrades American Homes 4 Rent on valuation gap
--Citi upgraded Invitation Homes (NYSE:INVH) to Buy and downgraded American Homes (NYSE:AMH) 4 Rent to Neutral, citing relative valuation and expectations that Invitation Homes' earnings growth will soon catch up with its peer. Citi said the recent underperformance of INVH shares, about 6% behind American Homes since first-quarter results, has widened the valuation gap to an attractive entry point. INVH now trades at a roughly 30 basis point implied cap rate discount to AMH, which Citi sees as near the lower end of historical levels. 'We believe INVH is in a good position to assess these risks given its knowledge of BTR rents and valuations in the market,' the analysts wrote, adding that INVH's guidance appears more conservative and may beat expectations on occupancy and rent growth. Citi sees additional upside from INVH's new lending program, which could add 7 cents to annual earnings, about a 3.5% boost, over the medium term. The initiative also opens up more opportunities to acquire built-to-rent communities from homebuilders. Despite slower lease growth in recent months, Citi expects both INVH and AMH to grow rents at around 4% over the next few years. While AMH may have already peaked in new lease growth in May, the bank noted that differences in rent trends were modest and likely driven by methodology and market reaction to seasonality. Citi raised its price target on INVH to $38.50 from $35, implying a 4.8% cap rate and a 19x multiple on 2026 core FFO. It maintained a $41 target for AMH, equating to a 4.7% cap rate and a 21x multiple. We continue to like the single-family rental sector overall, Citi said, but sees greater upside in INVH due to potential earnings reacceleration and a return to more typical relative valuation. Related articles Citi upgrades Invitation Homes, downgrades American Homes 4 Rent on valuation gap Melius upgrades Deere on long-term tech moat and recurring revenue upside UAE's data center project with U.S. tech firms faces security concerns Sign in to access your portfolio
NDTV
30-05-2025
- NDTV
World No Tobacco Day 2025: Expert Explains How Tobacco Use Affects Fertility In Men And Women
Infertility is increasingly affecting both young individuals and couples at an alarming rate. While certain medical conditions and genetic factors play a role, shifts in lifestyle have emerged as a major contributor to this trend. Although some causes lie beyond one's control, many lifestyle-related factors-such as the use of tobacco in any form-are within our influence. Tobacco consumption significantly hampers fertility and has a negative impact on reproductive health in both men and women. Impact on female fertility Here's how smoking affects ovarian function: Hormonal disruption: In the body, hormone regulation is a delicate process where the secretion of one hormone influences others. The chemicals present in tobacco products, like cigarettes, interfere with the normal functioning of glands that produce reproductive hormones-namely the thyroid, hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands. This interference raises levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and testosterone (typically a male hormone) in women, both of which are linked to reduced fertility. Simultaneously, essential hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), and prolactin decline, all of which play vital roles in female fertility. Ovarian and menstrual disorders: The hormonal imbalances caused by smoking are known to lead to various ovarian and menstrual irregularities. For instance, increased testosterone levels in women are often associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition marked by disrupted ovulation and menstrual cycles, which complicates natural conception. Reduced levels of estrogen and progesterone further contribute to irregular menstrual cycles. Moreover, a drop in AMH levels suggests a reduced reserve of healthy eggs, as smoking damages the genetic composition of gametes. Early onset of menopause: Menopause, the natural end of menstrual cycles that usually occurs in women during their late 40s or 50s, marks the depletion of viable eggs for ovulation. Smoking speeds up the deterioration of egg quality and quantity in the ovaries, often leading to premature menopause. Once menopause occurs, the possibility of natural pregnancy ceases. Impact on pregnancy Smoking affects both the initial stages of conceiving a baby and the progression of pregnancy. Pregnancy-related risks: Women who smoke are more prone to complications such as ectopic pregnancies (where the embryo implants outside the uterus), miscarriages, and spontaneous abortions. Foetal development concerns: The carbon monoxide present in cigarette smoke can harm the developing foetal central nervous system (CNS). Smoking during pregnancy also impairs growth within the womb, heightening the risk of premature delivery. Furthermore, it can negatively affect the formation of the foetus's lungs and brain. Genetic abnormalities and birth defects: Smoking negatively affects the quality of a woman's eggs, which can lead to fertilised eggs carrying genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome. Women who smoke during pregnancy are also at greater risk of giving birth to babies with congenital defects like cleft lip and/or cleft palate. Postnatal complications: Babies born to mothers who smoke often have lower birth weights, even if carried to full term. As they grow, these children face an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions, including obesity, diabetes, asthma, and cardiovascular disease. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, women who use tobacco are twice as likely to experience infertility compared to non-smokers. They also have a higher incidence of ectopic pregnancies and preterm births. Tobacco use not only harms the health of women but also has serious consequences for their future children. Smoking during pregnancy can hinder foetal growth and lead to long-term health issues in children, such as asthma, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Impact on male fertility: In men, smoking impairs both the genetic integrity and physical structure of sperm, and can also lead to erectile dysfunction, making it more difficult to conceive. The Journal of Andrology reports that men who smoke are twice as likely to experience erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, smoking has been linked to sperm DNA damage and increased miscarriage risk. Tobacco products introduce cancer-causing chemicals and heavy metals like cadmium and lead into the body, both of which are known to harm sperm health. The need to quit tobacco Given these serious risks, it is crucial for couples to either reduce or completely quit tobacco use-not only for their own health but also for the well-being of the children they hope to have. Temporary alternatives such as nicotine gum, patches, or prescribed medications can support the quitting process and significantly improve fertility. However, even with lifestyle changes, natural conception may still be difficult for some. In such cases, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can offer potential solutions. It's important to note, however, that the effectiveness of ART treatments can also be affected by the extent of tobacco-related damage to one's reproductive health. (Dr Kshitiz Murdia is an IVF specialist. He is also the CEO and co-founder of Indira IVF) Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Time of India
29-05-2025
- Time of India
Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms: Can magnesium deficiency lead to infertility - here's what we know
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals that our body needs to stay healthy. It helps with muscle function, reducing immunity, nerve signals, bone strength, and keeping our heart steady. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now However, despite its importance, many of us are deficient in this mineral, since our diet is not conducive. However, can magnesium deficiency lead to infertility as well?Let's find out... Relationship of fertility with magnesium For both male and female fertility, magnesium is extremely important because it helps maintain a healthy blood supply to the uterus, and supports the production of progesterone, a hormone extremely important for pregnancy. Magnesium also plays a role in regulating reproductive hormones and reducing inflammation, which can affect ovulation and egg quality of the woman. What does study say A recent study involving infertile women found that supplementing with magnesium significantly increased levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian reserve and fertility potential. Higher AMH levels improve the chances of successful pregnancy, either natural, or assisted. Though magnesium deficiency alone may not be the sole cause of infertility, it can be an important factor. Early signs of magnesium deficiency. Look out for these Cramps One of the most common early signs is muscle cramps or twitches. Magnesium helps muscles relax after they contract. Without enough magnesium, muscles can become tight and cramp easily. You might feel night cramps, or small twitches under your skin, causing involuntary movements. Weakness We all feel tired once in a while. While regular tiredness is okay, feeling unusually tired or weak, can be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium plays a key role in energy production. When levels are low, your body may struggle to produce enough energy, leading to constant fatigue even after rest. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Numbness Some people experience numbness or tingling sensations, especially in the hands and feet. This happens because magnesium helps nerves send signals properly. A lack of magnesium can cause nerve irritation or damage, leading to these sensations, that can be uncomfortable. Mood changes Low magnesium levels can cause increased anxiety, irritability, and even depression. If you notice mood swings or feel anxious without a clear reason, you might be deficient. Irregular heartbeat Magnesium helps keep your heart rhythm steady. Early deficiency can cause palpitations or irregular heartbeats. While this symptom is more serious and should be checked immediately, it often starts subtly, and hence is easily missable. Loss of appetite Lack of appetite, feeling full quickly or nauseous can also be early signs. These symptoms are often ignored because they seem like minor digestive issues but could indicate low magnesium. How to increase magnesium intake Alter your diet Include these foods in your diet: Spinach, kale, and other green leafy vegetables Nuts like almonds, cashews, and peanuts Seeds such as pumpkin, chia, and flaxseeds Whole grains like brown rice and oats Beans and lentils Dark chocolate (in moderation) Consider Magnesium Supplements If your doctor recommends, you can take magnesium supplements. There are different types, such as magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium glycinate. Your doctor will advise which type and dose are best for you. Sources: PMC Article on Magnesium and IVF Pregnancy Outcomes, 2015 ScienceDirect on Magnesium Deficiency and Pregnancy Complications Natalist Blog on Magnesium Deficiency and Fertility Journal of Pharmacy and Therapeutics on Magnesium Supplementation and AMH Houston Fertility Center Article on Magnesium and Female Fertility on Minerals and Women's Fertility
