Test it Tuesday: Are You Magnesium Deficient? Here’s How to Know

You may be low in magnesium and not even realize it. Magnesium is crucial for everything from muscle function and nerve health to detoxification, hormone balance, and restful sleep. Yet, it’s estimated that over 50% of people are deficient—often without clear signs on standard labs.

That’s because traditional serum magnesium tests only show what’s floating in the bloodstream—not what’s actually inside your cells where magnesium does its real work. So you could have a “normal” result and still be depleted.

What I Look At Instead:

• Serum Magnesium: Normal range is 1.7–2.2 mg/dL
  Functional optimal range: 2.0–2.2 mg/dL

• RBC Magnesium (Red Blood Cell): This gives a better picture of intracellular levels.
  Normal range: 4.2–6.8 mg/dL | Optimal range: 6.0–6.5 mg/dL

If your levels fall below these functional ranges—or you’re dealing with symptoms like muscle cramps, anxiety, constipation, or poor sleep—it’s time to take a closer look.

I also use a magnesium symptom questionnaire in my practice to assess functional needs. If you’re not sleeping well, feeling wired but tired, or can’t seem to relax, your body might be whispering (or shouting) for more magnesium.

One of my go-to supplements is Magnesium Citrate Powder by Pure Encapsulations—clean, effective, and easy to absorb. It’s especially helpful for patients who need digestive support or nervous system calming.

✨ Remember, we don’t guess—we test. Want to know if your levels are optimal? Let’s dive into functional testing and get your body back in balance.