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The Role of Magnesium and Zinc for Immunity

  • Writer: Dr. Catherine
    Dr. Catherine
  • Nov 28
  • 3 min read

A strong immune system is essential for protecting the body from infections, viruses, inflammation, and everyday stress.


While a healthy lifestyle, good sleep, and balanced nutrition are important, certain minerals play a special role in supporting immunity.


Two of the most important are magnesium and zinc.


These minerals are involved in hundreds of biological processes that keep the immune system functioning properly.


When the body lacks magnesium or zinc, it becomes more vulnerable to infections, fatigue, slow healing, and inflammation.


If constant fatigue and muscle cramps have been your constant enemies for the last 6 month, time to schedule your doctor checkup! Contact our clinic for further doctor consultation and medical treatments.


Magnesium and Zinc Benefits for Immunity

Both magnesium and zinc are essential minerals, meaning the body cannot produce them on its own.


They support immune cells, reduce inflammation, help enzymes work, and maintain a healthy stress response, all of which are important for fighting infections.


When levels drop too low, the immune system weakens and recovery becomes slower.


Thus, maintaining normal levels of magnesium and zinc is necessary to keep your normal body functions.


Symptoms of Magnesium and Zinc Deficiency


Some of the common symptoms common people suffer might have deeper underlying issues.


So, next time "that one cramp" or "headache" hit, you know exactly what to do; check your magnesium and zinc levels.


Here are some pointers toward low magnesium:


  • Muscle cramps or twitching

  • Fatigue and low energy

  • Trouble sleeping or insomnia

  • Headaches or migraines

  • Stress, irritability, or anxiety

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Poor concentration


And here are the symptoms of low zinc levels in the body:


  • Frequent infections

  • Slow wound healing

  • Loss of taste or smell

  • Hair loss

  • Skin problems (acne, dermatitis)

  • Loss of appetite

  • Low testosterone or hormonal imbalance

  • Fatigue and brain fog


Why Our Body Needs Magnesium and Zinc


Learning the symptoms of low magnesium and zinc is the foundation of understanding their importance.


Just maintaining your routine of healthy diet and diligent exercise is not enough.


Body metabolic rates might differ from person to person, and other external factors also play a part in your body's ability to absorb and excrete these substances.


Magnesium and zinc supplements will actively rebuild your body and assist in cellular regenerative processes.


Here are some benefits of taking magnesium and zinc supplements:


  • Activates immune cells that fight infection

  • Reduces inflammation

  • Supports energy production for immune cells

  • Improves sleep, which strengthens immunity

  • Regulates stress hormones

  • Supports muscle and nerve health

  • Helps activate vitamin D

  • Supports wound healing

  • Supports hormone balance

  • Helps maintain gut immunity


Recommended Supplements, Dosages & When to Seek Medical Advice


You can start the magnesium and zinc supplements on your own under specific medical guidelines.


Remember, although these supplements are easy to find in your nearest drug stores, you need to be mindful of the daily requirements of your body.


The acceptable doses of magnesium and zinc supplements are as follows:


Typical adult doses:

  • Magnesium: 200–400 mg/day (glycinate, citrate, malate).

  • Zinc: 15–30 mg/day (picolinate or gluconate).

    Avoid long-term zinc doses above 40 mg/day without supervision.


If you have taken the supplements and still suffer from medical problems, it is a signal you cannot ignore.

The possible causes could range different medical causes other than the deficiencies and the incorrect doses of the supplements on your daily intake.


See a doctor if you experience:

  • Frequent infections

  • Severe fatigue

  • Muscle cramps, palpitations, or numbness

  • Loss of taste/smell

  • Slow wound healing or significant hair loss

Recommended tests include CMP, CRP, and Vitamin D25-OH.


Doctor's Message


Magnesium and zinc are powerful minerals that support many immune functions, from reducing inflammation to strengthening white blood cells and improving healing.


Deficiency in either mineral can weaken immunity and affect overall health.


With proper testing, balanced nutrition, and the right supplements, maintaining healthy magnesium and zinc levels is one of the easiest ways to keep your immune system strong, resilient, and ready to protect your body every day.


dr. Cathrine, GP, Reset Room Bali

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