People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often explore alternative or natural therapies, including vitamins, minerals, and other supplements. Researchers are still exploring the connections between vitamin deficiency and multiple sclerosis. Some of these studies focus on magnesium levels.

Some members of MyMSTeam have shared experiences with magnesium supplements, often based on recommendations from their healthcare providers. “Interesting visit with my neurologist yesterday,” one member shared. “I mentioned the cramps I have been experiencing, and she recommended I start taking a magnesium oxide supplement of 400-800 milligrams daily.”

Can magnesium supplements really help with MS symptoms? Here are six facts you should know about the potential link between MS and magnesium.

1. Researchers Are Studying Magnesium and Multiple Sclerosis Inflammation

Most research on vitamin and mineral deficiencies in MS focuses on vitamin D. That’s because low levels of vitamin D are a known risk factor for developing MS, and your body needs magnesium to use vitamin D properly. That’s why people who take vitamin D supplements are usually advised to also take a magnesium supplement.

Less research is available on the specific role of magnesium in MS. But we do know that magnesium is an essential mineral for both muscles and nerves. It’s also necessary for the electrical conduction that makes your muscles contract.

In addition, magnesium deficiency is known to cause inflammation in the nervous system, which is one of the key aspects of MS. Because of this, scientists think magnesium may play a role in MS. Some believe taking magnesium supplements, especially with vitamin D, might help reduce inflammation in the nervous system.

However, few research studies have looked at whether magnesium affects the risk of developing MS. One large study followed thousands of people over several decades to see if magnesium intake affected MS risk. The researchers didn’t find a link between magnesium levels and MS risk.

A 2021 review of the research on minerals and MS found no difference in magnesium levels among people with and without MS.

So far, the research has not shown a clear connection between magnesium and MS. More studies are needed to know whether magnesium affects the development of MS or MS relapses.

2. Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency Can Overlap With MS Symptoms

It’s possible to have low levels of magnesium without knowing it. Many people live with magnesium deficiency without any symptoms at all. Magnesium deficiency shares symptoms with various other conditions, so it can be difficult to diagnose.

Common symptoms of low levels of magnesium include:

• Muscle spasms
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Stiffness
• Twitching
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Severe magnesium deficiency can lead to more serious symptoms, such as abnormal heart rhythms and shaking.

Some symptoms of MS can be similar to those of magnesium deficiency. For example, weakness, numbness, and stiffness are also common signs of an MS relapse. Some people living with MS may also experience painful muscle spasms in their legs, whether or not they’re magnesium deficient. Because these symptoms overlap, it can be hard to know what’s causing them without a proper diagnosis from a doctor.

3. Your Doctor Can Diagnose Magnesium Deficiency

If you’re concerned you may have a magnesium deficiency, talk to your doctor. They can order a simple blood test to measure your magnesium levels, along with other minerals, such as calcium and potassium. Keep in mind that a magnesium level blood test measures how much magnesium is in your blood — not the total amount stored in your body.

Your doctor may also do a physical exam to evaluate your symptoms. Sometimes, they’ll order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to look at your heart. This is part of a full checkup for possible magnesium deficiency.

4. Magnesium Supplements May Help With Leg Spasms

If you have MS and are dealing with strong leg spasms, talk to your doctor. The spasms could be related to low levels of magnesium. A doctor can help find the cause and treatment options. One MyMSTeam member wrote, “I was having chest pain, and low magnesium was a factor. Plus, magnesium has helped with leg spasms.”

Another member noted, “Magnesium really helps with reducing spasms, especially restless legs — usually at night.” Another member agreed, “My spasms have gotten better due to my daily magnesium.”

5. You Can Get More Magnesium Through Food

Whether or not you have MS, getting enough magnesium is important to your body’s vital functions and overall health. The good news is you can get plenty of magnesium through a balanced diet. Below are some examples of magnesium-rich foods. Eating a mix of these foods often is a good way to get enough magnesium. Your body handles magnesium from food better than from supplements, so it’s less likely to cause side effects.

• Nuts and seeds
• Legumes (like black beans, lima beans, and edamame)
• Leafy green vegetables (like spinach, kale, and collard greens)
• Potatoes with skin
• Green peas
• Fruits (like avocados, bananas, and blackberries)
• Dark chocolate (70 percent cocoa or higher)
• Whole grains (like whole wheat and quinoa)
• Low-fat dairy products

Which Type of Magnesium Is Best for Neurological Disorders?

If you want to take a supplement instead of relying on food, you may wonder which form of magnesium is best for multiple sclerosis. There are many forms of oral magnesium supplements, including:

• Magnesium citrate
• Magnesium glycinate
• Magnesium malate
• Magnesium L-threonate
• Magnesium taurate
• Magnesium sulfate
• Magnesium orotate

These supplements all have their own benefits and effects. One type, L-threonate, has shown brain health benefits in animal studies. In one study with rats, magnesium L-threonate was shown to reverse brain aging and improve how neurons (brain cells) communicate. However, this effect has not been proved in humans, so more research is needed for people with MS.

Other forms of magnesium, like citrate and glycinate, are often easier for the body to absorb and are gentler on the stomach than other magnesium forms.

6. Magnesium Supplements Can Have Side Effects

It’s always best to ask your doctor before you begin taking any vitamins and dietary supplements. Some supplements can affect how other treatments work, including certain antibiotics and other medications. Taking more than the recommended daily allowance of magnesium can cause side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping.

It’s usually better to obtain magnesium through dietary intake (the foods and beverages you consume) than supplements. Your doctor may only recommend a supplement if you have a specific symptom or low magnesium levels. Taking too much magnesium can lead to toxicity, so make sure to ask your healthcare provider if a supplement is right for you.

Magnesium for MS: The Bottom Line

So, should you take magnesium supplements to help with MS symptoms? Maybe — but only if you have low magnesium levels. Some symptoms can be signs of low magnesium levels, but the only way to know for sure is with a blood test from your doctor. If your magnesium is low, your healthcare provider can help you decide how to add it to your MS care safely and effectively.

It’s also worth noting that many plant foods today have lower magnesium levels than they used to due to changes in soil quality and food processing. This may make it harder to get enough magnesium from food alone.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyMSTeam is the social network for people with MS and their loved ones. On MyMSTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with MS.

Have you had a magnesium deficiency? Have you talked to your doctor about vitamins and supplements for MS? What has worked for you? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.