Ministry of Health warns against indiscriminate magnesium supplement use

Ahmad Esmailzadeh, Director General of the Office of Community Nutrition Improvement at the Ministry of Health, has issued a warning against the indiscriminate and long-term use of magnesium and vitamin supplements.

While magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps, gastrointestinal issues, constipation, and nervous system disturbances, Esmailzadeh noted that most people meet their requirements through diet. Supplements should only be used under medical supervision for specific groups, such as athletes or pregnant women experiencing nocturnal muscle cramps, typically for limited periods of one to two months.

Excessive or prolonged magnesium consumption can interfere with the absorption of divalent minerals like calcium and iron, potentially disrupting calcium balance. Furthermore, long-term misuse may negatively impact kidney and bone health. Similar warnings were issued regarding the self-administration of Vitamin D3 and B-group vitamins, as excessive intake can lead to toxicity due to accumulation in the body.