Can Kids Take Magnesium Every Day?
The short answer: yes. Children need magnesium every day, and children's magnesium supplements are designed for daily use at the dose for their age. There is no need for breaks and no risk of dependence. The key is to stay within the label dose, count magnesium from any other supplements, and check with your GP first if your child has kidney problems, a medical condition or takes medication.
Why daily makes sense
Magnesium is used constantly by the body, in nerves, muscles and energy production, and some is lost every day. That is why the reference intakes are daily amounts. A top-up taken every day fills a steady gap; taken now and then, it does very little. See how long magnesium takes to work.
Is long-term use safe?
At children's doses, yes. Healthy kidneys remove any excess, and children's products are dosed well within official upper limits for supplemental magnesium. Our dose is 35mg for ages 1 to 5 and 70mg for ages 5 to 14. For the limits by age, see is magnesium safe for kids?
Do kids need breaks from magnesium?
No. Magnesium is a mineral, not a medicine, and the body does not build up tolerance to it or come to depend on it. Some parents like to review things every few months, for example when a fussy phase ends and diet improves. That is a good habit, but not a requirement.
Things to keep an eye on
- Total intake from supplements. If your child also has a multivitamin containing magnesium, add the two together.
- Loose stools. The usual sign of too much or a harsh form. Gentle forms like magnesium glycinate rarely cause this.
- Medicines. Some antibiotics and other medicines should be taken a few hours apart from magnesium. Your pharmacist can advise.
When to stop or check first
- If your child develops diarrhoea or tummy pain that does not settle.
- If your child is diagnosed with a kidney problem or starts a new medicine.
- For babies under 12 months, who should not have magnesium supplements unless a doctor advises it.
Making daily easy
Link it to something that already happens every day, such as the evening milk, and keep the bottle where you will see it. Our guide to the best time to give magnesium has more tips, and our magnesium for kids is truly unflavoured, so it disappears into the daily drink.
Our magnesium
Liposomal Magnesium for Kids (Age 1+) is truly unflavoured, gentle on little tummies, and built for absorption. Magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system.*
*Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Consult your healthcare provider before use if your child has a medical condition or takes medication.