Which demographic is at higher risk for hypomagnesemia?

Individuals who are elderly, malnourished, or those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk for hypomagnesemia due to several interconnected factors. As people age, dietary intake may decline, and absorption of nutrients can be impaired. Malnutrition, whether due to socioeconomic factors, poor appetite, or specific dietary restrictions, can lead to deficiencies in essential minerals, including magnesium.

Chronic illnesses, such as gastrointestinal disorders (which may impair magnesium absorption), diabetes (which can increase urinary losses of magnesium), and kidney disease (where magnesium excretion may be affected), further contribute to the risk of developing hypomagnesemia. In these contexts, both the dietary intake of magnesium and the physiological mechanisms for maintaining magnesium balance become compromised.

This demographic illustrates a clear link between health status and mineral deficiency, emphasizing the importance of monitoring magnesium levels in older adults and those with chronic conditions to prevent potential complications associated with low magnesium levels.