Table 3.

Main Mechanisms of Magnesium Deficit with Aging.

Primary magnesium deficit: ○ Inadequate magnesium dietary intake ○ Reduced efficiency of magnesium absorption (associated with reduced vitamin D levels)? ○ Increased urinary excretion of magnesium (associated with age-dependent reduction of kidney function and of magnesium tubular reabsorption) Secondary magnesium deficiency: ○ Associated with age-related diseases and comorbidities ○ Increased urinary magnesium loss secondary to drugs (i.e., diuretics) frequently used in hypertensive older adults