On MyLupusTeam, members often ask questions about natural remedies for lupus. “Are there any specific vitamins that you feel can be helpful?” one member asked. Another replied, “I take magnesium.”

Magnesium is an essential mineral that many Americans don’t get enough of. You can find magnesium in foods like nuts, whole grains, beans, leafy greens, and milk. Magnesium helps keep your muscles and nerves working properly — and when you’re deficient, your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis increases.

But can magnesium supplementation benefit people living with lupus?

The most common type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here, we look at what researchers know about magnesium supplementation and whether it may play a role in lupus care.

What Is Magnesium Used For?

Low magnesium has been linked to many conditions, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and migraine headaches. Research on the benefits of taking magnesium supplements is still limited, but some studies have found that:

• Magnesium supplementation may slightly lower blood pressure in people with hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Eating foods with about 100 milligrams more magnesium per day may lower stroke risk by about 8 percent.
• Diets rich in magnesium may help reduce the risk of diabetes.
• Magnesium may increase bone density in postmenopausal women, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Taking 300 milligrams of magnesium twice a day — alone or with antimigraine medications — under the direction and supervision of a healthcare provider may prevent migraine headaches.

Many people also use magnesium to help with sleep problems and constipation, both of which often affect people with lupus. The recommended daily intake of magnesium depends on age and sex. For adults, it ranges from 310 to 420 milligrams per day. Most people can meet this goal through a balanced diet without taking supplements.

Lupus and Magnesium

Some research suggests that people living with lupus may have lower magnesium levels than those without the condition. In one small study, participants with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and SLE were more likely to have low magnesium levels than those without these conditions. However, this finding only shows a correlation — and because the study was small, more research is needed.

A larger study of 476 people recently diagnosed with SLE found that those with lower magnesium levels were at a higher risk of infection. Those who had a current infection were more likely to have a lower magnesium level than those without an infection.

So, can a person with lupus safely take magnesium supplements? Magnesium supplements haven’t been directly tested for their ability to treat lupus symptoms, but the nutrient has been studied for its effects on related conditions. For example, magnesium may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches, which are common in people with SLE. The American Migraine Foundation recommends 400 to 600 milligrams per day for migraine prevention. However, this advice isn’t specific to lupus-related headaches.

The best way to get magnesium is through your diet. Magnesium-rich foods include:

• Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach
• Legumes, like edamame and black beans
• Seeds, such as pumpkin and chia
• Nuts, including almonds and cashews

Risks of Magnesium Supplements

Before taking magnesium supplements, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and interactions.

High doses of magnesium from supplements can cause nausea, cramping, and diarrhea. They may also interact with certain antibiotics, antacids, and laxatives.

If you’re concerned about magnesium deficiency, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional. They can check your magnesium levels with a blood test and recommend a safe magnesium dosage or dietary plan. A registered dietitian can also help you include more magnesium-rich foods in your daily meals.

Other Supplements Recommended by Members

Many MyLupusTeam members share the natural supplements and foods that help them feel their best. People with lupus can benefit from anti-inflammatory foods, including foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin D. Fish oil and flaxseed oil are sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

While it’s always safest to get nutrients from your diet, MyLupusTeam members often discuss supplements they have tried for their overall wellness. One member listed the natural remedies they take daily: “Turmeric, ginger root, fish oil, flaxseed oil, calcium, vitamin D3, glucosamine, vitamin C, electrolyte supplement, fruit smoothie every morning, chicken veggie soups. These are all-natural ways I have found to help,” they said.

Another member mentioned four supplements their rheumatologist prescribed them to add to their medication regimen: “NAC, DHEA, fish oil, and vitamin D.”

Many supplements claim to help with common symptoms of lupus, such as fatigue and skin problems. However, most supplements on the market aren’t regulated or supported by research. Before starting any new supplement, talk to your doctor to make sure the potential benefits outweigh the risks and they won’t interfere with your current treatment plan.

Join the Conversation

On MyLupusTeam, people share their experiences with lupus, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Have you ever taken magnesium for your lupus symptoms? Let others know in the comments below.