What does this rating mean?
Magnesium is an essential trace element found in many foods. Magnesium is used in many different processes in the body.
It is thought that magnesium deficiency may contribute to depression symptoms in some people. Treating this deficiency with magnesium supplements may lead to improvements in depression symptoms.
There have been several small studies looking at the use of magnesium to improve mood, but the findings of these studies are mixed. Review of studies which looked at the treatment of depression using magnesium either by itself or in addition to other treatments have found inconsistent results.
More studies of higher quality are needed to better understand the effects of magnesium on depression.
While magnesium is generally well tolerated there have been some reported side effects from magnesium, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Dietary supplements, including magnesium, may have negative interactions with prescribed medications or other supplements. They should always be taken under the supervision of a health care professional.
Magnesium supplements can be purchased from a chemist and some supermarkets. If you think you might have a magnesium deficiency, it is important to discuss this with your doctor and have a blood test to check.
Given the lack of evidence on magnesium it cannot be recommended as a treatment for depression.
Last reviewed and updated: 7 August 2023
These treatments are very useful. They are strongly supported as effective by scientific evidence.
These treatments are useful. They are supported by scientific evidence as effective, but the evidence is not as strong.
These treatments are promising and may be useful. They have some evidence to support them, but more evidence is needed to be sure they work.
