Unfortunately, magnesium deficiency is dramatically under-diagnosed because it doesn’t show up on a blood test. Only 1% of the magnesium in your body is stored in your blood, and the majority of it’s stored in your bones. However, there are a few symptoms to look for that point to a magnesium deficiency:

Leg Cramps. Upwards of 70% of adults experience leg cramps on a regular basis. Because of magnesium’s role in neuromuscular signals and muscle contraction, researchers have observed that magnesium deficiency is often to blame.

Insomnia. Magnesium deficiency is often a precursor to sleep disorders such as anxiety, hyperactivity and restlessness. It’s been suggested that this is because magnesium is vital for GABA function, an inhibitory neurotransmitter known to “calm” the brain and promote relaxation.

Anxiety. Because magnesium deficiency affects the central nervous system (more specifically the GABA cycle in the body) its side effects can include irritability and nervousness. As the deficiency worsens, it causes higher levels of anxiety and, in severe cases, depression and hallucinations.

High Blood Pressure. Magnesium works with calcium to support proper blood pressure and protect the heart. When you are magnesium deficient, often you are also low in calcium and tend towards hypertension or high blood pressure.

Fatigue. Low energy, weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of magnesium deficiency.

Migraines. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to migraine headaches due to its importance in balancing neurotransmitters in the body.