Magnesium deficiency may occur in alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis, and renal diseases.
Prolonged deficiency can cause changes in heart and skeletal muscle.
Excessive retention of magnesium can occur in renal disease and results in muscle weakness and hypertension. Iron is a vital component of hemoglobin and also of certain respiratory enzymes. Increased requirements for iron occur during the growth period and pregnancy and with excessive menses and other instances of blood loss. The average diet contains 10 to 15 mg a day, adequate for most people. Iron deficiency, resulting in anemia, can be treated by large amounts of iron in order to gain positive absorption.