Quest Diagnostics Magnesium Test
Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
3
Duration
30 min
Results
4 days
Blood test to measure magnesium levels and identify deficiencies or excesses.
This test measures the level of magnesium in your blood. Magnesium is a critical mineral for maintaining proper muscle and brain function, converting nutrients into energy, and supporting various bodily processes. Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia) can be caused by malnutrition, alcoholism, and diabetes, leading to symptoms like muscle spasms, fatigue, and nausea. High levels (hypermagnesemia) can disrupt normal bodily functions. Understanding your magnesium levels helps you and your healthcare provider assess your overall health and address any imbalances.
Key Details
- Nutrients Tested
- 1–30+ (varies by panel)
- Fasting Required
- Varies by specific test
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Turnaround
- 2–5 business days
- Common Use
- Deficiency screening, supplementation guidance
Who Is This For?
Vegetarians and vegans (at higher risk of B12, iron, and zinc deficiency). Older adults, as nutrient absorption decreases with age. Anyone on restrictive diets or with digestive conditions affecting absorption. People experiencing unexplained fatigue, brain fog, poor wound healing, or hair loss. Athletes with high nutrient demands from training.
What's Included
Preparation Required
Fasting for 8–10 hours is recommended for some nutrient tests but not all — check with your provider. Continue taking your regular supplements unless told otherwise (the test measures your steady-state levels). Morning draws are preferred for consistent results.
Biomarkers Tested
3Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including energy production, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Magnesium deficiency is common and associated with muscle cramps, anxiety, insomnia, and increased cardiovascular risk.
Essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. B12 deficiency can cause anemia, neuropathy, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Common in vegans, vegetarians, older adults, and those taking metformin or acid-reducing medications.
Essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Folate deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and, during pregnancy, increases the risk of neural tube defects. Works closely with vitamin B12.
Physician service fee of $6.00 added; 10% discount available for first-time purchases
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 30 min
- Results
- 4 days