Ulta Lab Tests

Magnesium Advocacy Group Recommended

Magnesium Advocacy Group (MAG)–recommended testing looks beyond basic serum magnesium to a broader view of mineral balance and related nutrients. In addition to RBC magnesium, MAG-style panels often examine iron status (ferritin, iron/TIBC, transferrin saturation), copper and ceruloplasmin, zinc, vitamin D (25-OH with optional 1,25-OH2), and vitamin A (retinol). These markers can help explain fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, brain fog, hair thinning, sleep issues, and stress intolerance—symptoms that overlap with many conditions.

Our stance is proactive and balanced: use comprehensive labs to screen, triage, and monitor—then interpret with your clinician and current medical guidance. Some advocacy tests (for example 1,25-OH2 vitamin D) are not standard for deficiency screening and should be ordered for specific clinical reasons. Lab results don’t diagnose or treat by themselves; they guide next steps with a qualified professional.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Muscle & nerve: cramps, twitching, restless legs, tingling/numbness, migraines, jaw clenching

  • Energy & mood: chronic fatigue, low stamina, brain fog, low mood, poor stress tolerance

  • Sleep & stress: difficulty falling/staying asleep, non-restorative sleep, “wired and tired” at night

  • Hair/skin/nails: shedding, brittle nails, dry or itchy skin, slow wound healing

  • Metabolic & cardio: palpitations, elevated triglycerides, elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance clues

  • Digestive & absorption risk: celiac/IBD, bariatric surgery, chronic diarrhea, low stomach acid, long-term acid suppressants or metformin

  • Life stages: pregnancy/lactation, heavy menstrual bleeding, endurance training, aging adults

  • Urgent care now: chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, black/bloody stools, severe weakness, confusion, or stroke-like symptoms

Symptoms are nonspecific and require evaluation by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Quantify magnesium status beyond serum alone and contextualize mineral balance (iron, copper, zinc)

  • Differentiate look-alikes (iron deficiency vs anemia of inflammation; B12/folate issues vs magnesium)

  • Track trends after diet, supplementation, medication changes, or procedures that affect absorption

What testing cannot do

  • Provide a stand-alone diagnosis or dosing instructions without clinical oversight

  • Replace guideline-preferred tests (e.g., 25-OH vitamin D is routine; 1,25-OH2 is not for general screening)

  • Eliminate confounders such as inflammation (ferritin can be elevated) or assay interferences (biotin, hemolysis) without proper preparation

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Magnesium status

    • Magnesium, RBC: medium-term cell-associated magnesium; may better reflect tissue stores than serum.

    • Magnesium, Serum: widely available but can appear “normal” despite low total body magnesium.

    • Magnesium, 24-hour urine (select use): evaluates renal losses or absorption under clinician direction.

  • Iron status (the “full” panel concept)

    • Ferritin: iron stores; acute-phase reactant—can be normal/high in inflammation.

    • Serum Iron, TIBC, Transferrin Saturation: circulating iron and transport capacity.

    • CBC ± sTfR (selected): anemia type and iron-restricted erythropoiesis.

  • Copper–zinc balance

    • Ceruloplasmin & Serum Copper: copper transport/protein status; affected by estrogen, pregnancy, and inflammation.

    • Zinc: immune/skin/taste health; high zinc intake can depress copper.

  • Vitamins related to mineral metabolism

    • Vitamin D, 25-hydroxy (25-OH): standard test for vitamin D status.

    • Vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxy (1,25-OH2): not a general status test; used in renal disease, granulomatous disease, or specific endocrine questions.

    • Vitamin A (Retinol): supports epithelial health and iron metabolism; affected by liver function and intake.

  • Context markers

    • CMP (electrolytes, kidney/liver), Phosphorus, PTH (selected), ± B12/MMA and Folate when fatigue or neuropathy is prominent.

Preparation notes: Some trace-element and fat-soluble vitamin tests recommend avoiding supplements for 24 hours, a morning draw, and minimal strenuous exercise or alcohol beforehand. High-dose biotin can interfere with certain immunoassays; follow any hold instructions.

Quick Build Guide

Goal / Scenario Start with Add if needed
Baseline mineral check (MAG-style) RBC Magnesium • Serum Magnesium • Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • Zinc • Copper • Ceruloplasmin • 25-OH Vitamin D • Retinol (Vitamin A) CBC • CMP • Phosphorus • PTH (clinician-directed)
Muscle cramps, headaches, sleep issues RBC Magnesium • Serum Magnesium • 25-OH Vitamin D Zinc • Copper • Ceruloplasmin • Magnesium 24-hr urine
Hair loss, brittle nails, heavy menses Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • CBC Zinc • B12 ± MMA • 25-OH Vitamin D
Fatigue/brain fog with GI risk RBC Magnesium • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC • 25-OH Vitamin D • B12 ± MMA • Folate Zinc • Copper • CMP
Inflammation suspected Ferritin • Transferrin Saturation • CBC CRP/ESR to contextualize ferritin
Special endocrine questions 25-OH Vitamin D 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D(clinician-directed only)

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick your starting bundle: use the Quick Build Guide to match symptoms and goals.

  2. Prepare for accuracy: follow any supplement holds (zinc/biotin/fat-soluble vitamins), note medicines (PPIs, metformin, diuretics), and typical diet. Fasting is usually not required unless your order specifies it.

  3. Provide samples: standard blood draw; select tests may use 24-hour urine.

  4. Get secure results: most post within a few days; use the same lab methods over time when trending.

  5. Plan next steps: review with your clinician to confirm causes (diet, absorption, losses) and set a monitoring cadence.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • RBC magnesium low with symptoms → compatible with magnesium insufficiency; correlate with serum Mg, diet, medicines, and kidney function.

  • Normal ferritin in inflammation → ferritin may be misleading; check transferrin saturation and CRP/ESR.

  • Low copper or low ceruloplasmin → consider intake, zinc excess, malabsorption, liver disease; clinician context is key.

  • Low 25-OH vitamin D → reflects status; season and intake matter.

  • 1,25-OH2 vitamin D abnormal → interpret only with clinician guidance (renal or granulomatous disease contexts).
    Trends over time matter more than a single value; always interpret with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Core MAG-inspired panel: RBC Mg • Serum Mg • Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • Zinc • Copper • Ceruloplasmin • 25-OH Vitamin D • Retinol

  • Depth options: CBC • CMP • Phosphorus • PTH • B12 ± MMA • Folate • CRP/ESR • 24-hr Urine Mg
    Choose a bundled panel for efficiency, then add targeted markers to answer specific questions or monitor change.

FAQs

Is RBC magnesium better than serum magnesium?
RBC magnesium may reflect medium-term intracellular status, while serum shows circulating levels. Many clinicians use both, plus clinical context.

Do I need both 25-OH and 1,25-OH2 vitamin D?
Usually no. 25-OH is the standard status test. 1,25-OH2 is for specific conditions and should be clinician-directed.

Can zinc supplements lower copper?
Yes—high zinc intake can reduce copper. Test and balance under professional guidance.

Why is my ferritin normal if I feel iron-deficient?
Ferritin rises with inflammation. Pair with transferrin saturation and consider CRP/ESR to clarify iron status.

Should I stop supplements before testing?
Often yes for trace elements and biotin—follow your order’s instructions to avoid false highs or assay interference.

How often should I re-test?
Commonly 8–12 weeks after changes in diet or supplements, then as advised by your clinician.

Related Test Categories & Key Tests

  • All Vitamin & Mineral Tests

  • Micronutrient Testing • Iron Studies & Anemia • Fatty Acids & Omega Tests • Metabolism Tests • Thyroid Health Tests

  • Key Tests: Magnesium (RBC) • Magnesium (Serum) • Magnesium (24-hr Urine) • Ferritin • Iron • TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • CBC • Zinc • Copper • Ceruloplasmin • Vitamin D (25-OH) • Vitamin D (1,25-OH2) • Vitamin A (Retinol) • CMP • Phosphorus • PTH • CRP • ESR • Vitamin B12 • MMA • Folate

References

  • NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Magnesium, Zinc, Copper, Vitamin D, Vitamin A fact sheets.
  • American Society of Hematology — Evaluation of iron deficiency and anemia.
  • Endocrine Society — Evaluation, treatment, and prevention of vitamin D deficiency.
  • AACC (American Association for Clinical Chemistry) — Best practices for trace-element testing; biotin interference advisories.
  • American College of Gastroenterology — Malabsorption and micronutrient assessment guidance.
  • Clinical reviews on RBC vs serum magnesium, ceruloplasmin interpretation, and iron indices in inflammation.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Magnesium Advocacy Group Recommended Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with the core MAG-inspired panel (RBC and serum magnesium with iron, copper/ceruloplasmin, zinc, 25-OH vitamin D, and retinol). Use filters to add CBC/CMP, CRP/ESR, B12 ± MMA/folate, PTH/phosphorus, or 24-hour urine magnesiumbased on your history. Follow any supplement-hold instructions and review results with your clinician to confirm causes and set a retesting plan.

The Magnesium Advocacy Group recommended lab tests are individual tests that measure the levels of a specific mineral, protein, or cell, among other things. Are you wondering what lab tests the Magnesium Advocacy Group recommends? This quick yet handy guide breaks things down for you, and we can help you get tested.

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Blood, Other
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist
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Blood, Other
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Blood
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Blood, Other
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The Ionized Calcium Test measures the biologically active form of calcium in blood, essential for nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and heart function. Unlike total calcium tests, it reflects only free calcium not bound to proteins. Doctors order this test to evaluate parathyroid disorders, kidney disease, cancer, or critical illness. Results help diagnose hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia and guide treatment for electrolyte and metabolic imbalances.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Ionized Ca Test, Serum Ionized Calcium Test
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The Ceruloplasmin Test measures levels of ceruloplasmin, a copper-carrying protein made in the liver, to evaluate copper metabolism and related disorders. Low levels may indicate Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, or severe liver disease, while high levels may suggest inflammation or pregnancy. Doctors order this test for patients with liver problems, neurological symptoms, or abnormal copper levels. Results help diagnose metabolic disorders and guide treatment.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Copper Oxide Test, Wilson’s Disease Test
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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The Copper Micronutrient Plasma Test measures copper levels in the blood to evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excess. Copper is essential for red blood cell formation, connective tissue health, energy production, and nervous and immune system function. This test helps identify imbalances from poor diet, malabsorption, or toxicity, supporting diagnosis and management of overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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The Copper Test measures copper levels in blood to evaluate nutritional status, liver function, and metabolic health. Abnormal levels may indicate Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, liver disorders, or malnutrition. Both deficiency and excess copper can affect nervous system, immune function, and energy metabolism. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained symptoms, monitor treatment, or assess copper-related disorders, providing key insight into overall health.

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Also Known As: Cu Test, Copper Serum Test, Copper Plasma Test
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The Ferritin Test measures ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body, to evaluate iron levels and detect deficiency or overload. It helps diagnose anemia, iron deficiency, hemochromatosis, and chronic disease-related inflammation. Doctors often order the ferritin test to investigate fatigue, weakness, or unexplained symptoms. It is also used to monitor iron supplementation, treatment effectiveness, and overall iron metabolism health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Iron Storage Test
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 The Full Monty panel is a comprehensive suite of tests designed to evaluate various nutritional and metabolic parameters. This panel includes assessments of vital minerals, vitamins, and proteins that play crucial roles in numerous bodily functions, including immune response, antioxidant defense, energy production, and red blood cell synthesis.
Blood, Other
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist
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 The Full Monty Panel with Uric Acid is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to provide a thorough evaluation of various nutritional and metabolic markers. This panel includes a wide range of tests that assess essential vitamins, minerals, and other critical components of blood chemistry. By evaluating these markers, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into a patient’s overall health, identify potential deficiencies or excesses, and detect early signs of disease. This panel is particularly useful for patients with complex health issues, those undergoing nutritional therapy, or individuals seeking a detailed health assessment.
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The Hemoglobin Test measures the amount of hemoglobin in blood, the protein that carries oxygen to tissues. Low hemoglobin may indicate anemia, blood loss, or nutritional deficiencies, while high levels may suggest dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath. Results provide key insight into oxygen transport, red blood cell health, and overall hematologic function.

Blood
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Also Known As: Hgb Test
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The Iron Total and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test measures iron levels in blood along with the blood’s ability to transport iron. It helps diagnose iron deficiency anemia, iron overload (hemochromatosis), and monitor nutritional or chronic health conditions. Low iron or high TIBC may indicate anemia, while high iron or low TIBC can suggest overload. Doctors use this test to evaluate fatigue, weakness, or other symptoms linked to iron and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Serum Iron Test, Total Iron Binding Capacity Test, TIBC Test, UIBC Test
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The Magnesium Micronutrient RBC Test measures magnesium levels within red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of long-term magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for muscle and nerve function, energy production, bone strength, and heart health. This test helps detect deficiencies or imbalances from poor diet, absorption issues, or medical conditions, supporting overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Other
Phlebotomist
Also Known As:

Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test

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The Magnesium RBC Test measures magnesium inside red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm, and bone health. Low levels may cause fatigue, cramps, arrhythmias, or weakness, while high levels may signal kidney issues. Doctors order this test to detect deficiency, monitor therapy, and evaluate overall metabolic and nutritional health.

Other
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test
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The Potassium RBC Test measures potassium levels inside red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of long-term potassium status than serum testing. Potassium is essential for muscle contraction, heart rhythm, nerve signaling, and fluid balance. Abnormal results may indicate deficiency from poor diet or diuretics, or excess linked to kidney dysfunction. Doctors use this test to evaluate metabolic health and guide electrolyte management.

Also Known As: K RBC Test
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The Transferrin Test measures transferrin, a blood protein that transports iron, to evaluate iron status and nutritional health. High levels may suggest iron deficiency anemia, while low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic illness. Doctors use this test alongside iron and TIBC to investigate fatigue, weakness, or anemia symptoms. Results provide vital insight into iron balance, red blood cell production, and overall metabolic function.

Blood
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The Vitamin A Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin A (retinol) to assess nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excesses. Adequate vitamin A is essential for vision, immune defense, reproduction, and cellular health. This test helps evaluate malnutrition, absorption issues, or toxicity from supplements, supporting diagnosis and monitoring of overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Retinol Test
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The Vitamin A Test measures blood levels of vitamin A, a nutrient essential for vision, immune function, reproduction, and skin health. Low levels may indicate malnutrition, fat malabsorption, or liver disease, while high levels may suggest toxicity from over-supplementation. Doctors use this test to investigate night blindness, frequent infections, or poor wound healing. Results provide vital insight into nutritional status, metabolic function, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Retinol Test
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The Vitamin D 1,25-Dihydroxy Test measures the active form of vitamin D in blood to evaluate calcium and phosphorus balance, bone health, and kidney function. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney disease, parathyroid disorders, or problems with calcium metabolism. Doctors order this test when deficiency symptoms don’t match 25-hydroxy vitamin D results or to monitor chronic illness. Results provide vital insight into vitamin D activity, mineral health, and metabolic function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Calcitriol Test
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The QuestAssureD™ Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Total Test measures Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, and total 25-hydroxy vitamin D to assess overall vitamin D status. Adequate vitamin D supports bone strength, calcium absorption, immune health, and muscle function. Low levels may cause osteoporosis, weakness, or increased disease risk, while high levels can indicate toxicity. Doctors use this test to diagnose deficiency, monitor supplementation, and evaluate metabolic and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Vitamin D Test, Ergocalciferol Test, Vitamin D2 Test, Cholecalciferol Test, Vitamin D3 Test, Calcidiol Test, 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Calcifidiol Test, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D Test, Vitamin D Total Test
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What Lab Tests Does the Magnesium Advocacy Group Recommend?

Magnesium is essential for strong bones and muscles, good heart health, and energy production.

Despite how important this mineral is, it can be easy to miss the signs of magnesium deficiency. With Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests, you can catch symptoms and get the necessary treatment sooner.

Here's a guide on Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests and panels, what they test for, and how they can benefit you.

What Are Magnesium Advocacy Group Lab Tests and Lab Panels?

Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests and panels evaluate your body's magnesium levels and many other vital vitamins and minerals through blood draws.

The Magnesium Advocacy Group recommended lab tests are individual tests that measure the levels of specific vitamins and minerals. Lab panels are groupings of related tests.

Iron Panel, Transferrin, and Hemoglobin

Iron panels are typically used when a person displays symptoms of having iron deficiency or overload. They measure iron levels and related biomarkers, including:

  • Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • Ferritin
  • Transferrin
  • Hemoglobin (Hgb)

The average processing time is 1-2 days. Patients should fast for at least 9 hours prior to having their blood drawn.

Magnesium RBC, Zinc, and Copper Panel

This panel tests for Magnesium RBC and other related biomarkers, including:

  • Zinc
  • Copper
  • Ceruloplasmin

The average processing time for this panel is 2-4 business days.

Magnesium RBC, Zinc, Copper with Iron Panel

The tests included in this panel are: 

  • Magnesium RBC
  • Copper
  • Zinc
  • Ceruloplasmin
  • Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • Ferritin
  • Transferrin
  • Hemoglobin

The average processing time for this panel is 2-5 days. Patients should fast for at least 9 hours prior to having their blood drawn.

Vit A&D, Mag RBC, Zinc, Iron & Ferritin

This panel is also referred to as the Full Monty Iron Panel with Vitamin A and D. The tests included in this panel are:

  • Ceruloplasmin
  • Copper
  • Ferritin
  • Hemoglobin
  • Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • Magnesium RBC
  • Transferrin
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin D
  • Zinc

The average processing time is 4-7 days. Patients should fast for at least 9 hours prior to having their blood drawn.

Vitamin D (1-25, D2, D3), Mag RBC & Calcium

The tests included in this panel are:

  • Magnesium RBC
  • Vitamin D, 1, 25-Dihydroxy
  • Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy
  • Calcium, Ionized

The average processing time is 5-7 business days.

Vitamin D (1-25,D2,D3), Potassium RBC & Ca

The tests included in this panel are:

  • Potassium RBC
  • Magnesium RBC
  • Ionized Calcium
  • Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy
  • Vitamin D, 1, 25-Dihydroxy

The average processing time for a Potassium Vitamin D Panel is 5-7 business days.

Vitamin D, Magnesium RBC, Zinc, Copper & Ca

The tests included in this panel are:

  • Magnesium RBC
  • Zinc
  • Ceruloplasmin
  • Copper
  • Ionized Calcium
  • Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy
  • Vitamin D, 1, 25-Dihydroxy

The average processing time is 5-7 business days.

Calcium, Ionized

The Calcium, Ionized test measures how much unbound calcium is in a person's blood.

Unbound calcium is typically measured when the balance between free and bound calcium is disrupted, which can occur with:

  • Extremely low albumin levels
  • Major surgeries
  • Blood transfusions
  • Critical illnesses

Those with low ionized calcium may experience muscle spasms or numbness around the mouth or in their hands and feet.

The average processing time is 1-2 business days, and it has no fasting requirements.

Ceruloplasmin and Copper

Ceruloplasmin is a protein containing copper, an essential mineral for a variety of bodily functions.

Ceruloplasmin and copper blood tests help diagnose diseases that cause abnormal levels of copper in the body, including Wilson's Disease, Celiac Disease, and Cystic Fibrosis. 

The average processing time for a Ceruloplasmin blood test is 4-5 days. It has no fasting requirements and is often accompanied by a copper blood test, which has an average processing time of 2-4 days.

Complete Blood Count and Hemoglobin 

Hemoglobin (Hgb) and Complete Blood Count (CBC) are part of routine general health blood work.

Hgb is a protein that carries oxygen throughout the body. 

Low Hgb levels can indicate anemia, nutritional deficiencies, bone marrow disorders, or kidney damage. High Hgb levels may indicate dehydration, lung disease, heart disease, or kidney tumors. 

The average processing time for Hgb and CBC blood tests is typically 1 day.

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity

Total Iron Binding Capacity is a blood test that measures the amount of iron you have in your blood and how well the protein transferrin carries the iron in your blood.

The average processing time for a TIBC test is 1-2 days.

Iron helps muscles store and use oxygen, and too little iron can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Low iron levels may occur from blood loss, poor diet, or inefficient absorption of iron from food.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside the body's cells. By measuring ferritin, doctors can indirectly measure the amount of iron in your blood.

Ferritin blood tests are often ordered after a person receives abnormal CBC results and may be accompanied by an Iron and TIBC Test to check for iron deficiency or overload.

The average processing time of a Ferritin blood test is typically 1 day.

Magnesium, RBC

Magnesium is essential for almost all of the body's chemical processes, including the maintenance of the body's:

  • Muscle and nerve function
  • Bone strength
  • Heart function
  • Blood pressure
  • Blood sugar levels
  • Immune system

Magnesium deficiencies may occur in cases of malnutrition and malabsorption. Magnesium excess may occur from ingesting antacids containing magnesium or when the kidneys excrete magnesium ineffectively.

The average processing time for a Magnesium RBC lab test is 4-5 days.

Potassium, RBC

Potassium is an electrolyte that is important for body and muscle function. Abnormal potassium levels may indicate kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid disorder, among other conditions.

The average processing time is 5 to 7 days.

Transferrin

Transferrin is a protein that helps carry iron to various parts of the body. It directly measures iron-binding capacity. This makes it useful in the assessment of iron balance, deficiency, and overload.

The typical processing time is 1-3 days, and it is necessary to fast 8-12 hours before blood sample collection.

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Vitamin A is essential for:

  • Healthy skin
  • Healthy eyes and vision
  • Bone growth
  • Immune function
  • Embryonic development

Vitamin A deficiency may occur if a person does not eat enough meat, fruits, and vegetables. Disorders associated with malnutrition or malabsorption can also cause it.

Symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency include:

  • Night blindness
  • Dry eyes, skin, or hair
  • Skin lesions
  • Anemia
  • Gray spots on the eye's lining
  • Repeated infections

Retinol tests also check for Vitamin A toxicity. This typically occurs because of supplement overuse or a diet that consists largely of Vitamin A rich foods.

The average processing time for a Vitamin A (retinol) lab test is 3-7 business days. It is necessary to fast for 12 hours before having your sample collected.

Vitamin D, 1, 25-Dihydroxy

Vitamin D, 1, 25-Dihydroxy is typically ordered to test for an excess of Vitamin D. This can occur with conditions such as parathyroid disorder and kidney failure.

The average processing time is 5-7 business days.

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy is necessary for teeth and bones to have proper growth and health. It also helps the immune system and bodily tissues develop healthily.

A Vitamin D lab test is usually ordered to test for symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is usually caused by insufficient sun exposure or conditions like Cystic Fibrosis and Crohn's Disease. Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency include:

  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Aches and pains
  • Frequent infections

The typical processing time is 1-3 days, and it has no fasting requirements.

Zinc

Zinc is essential for a strong immune system, normal growth and cell reproduction, and healing from injuries.

Zinc deficiency occurs from a lack of dietary intake or an excess of certain minerals, which prevent the body from effectively absorbing zinc. It may also occur with conditions such as Crohn's Disease and Sickle Cell Anemia.

Symptoms include:

  • Recurring infections
  • Decreased speed of healing
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Thinning hair
  • Recurring skin rashes or acne
  • Decreased ability to taste or smell

The typical processing time is 3-5 days, and there are no fasting requirements.

Benefits of Magnesium Advocacy Group Recommended Lab Tests and Lab Panels

Magnesium is essential for energy production, nerve and muscle function, and maintaining strong bones.

Persistent or severe magnesium deficiency or excess can lead to:

  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Confusion
  • Muscle cramps
  • Seizures
  • Heart Rate changes
  • Numbness or tingling
  • An affected calcium metabolism
  • Exacerbated calcium deficiencies

With Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests and panels, you can potentially catch these health issues and get the appropriate treatments before they get any worse.

Magnesium Advocacy Group FAQ

Here are some common questions about Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests.

When Are Magnesium Lab Tests Ordered?

Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests are used to measure magnesium levels. Abnormal magnesium levels may indicate conditions that impair intestinal magnesium absorption or cause the kidneys to excrete abnormal amounts of magnesium.

Magnesium lab tests are ordered to:

  • Evaluate the severity of kidney problems and uncontrolled diabetes
  • Evaluate diarrhea
  • Evaluate alcoholism
  • Help diagnose gastrointestinal disorders and certain hormone conditions
  • Monitor the effectiveness of a treatment
  • Check for malabsorption or malnutrition

When to Get Tested?

Lab tests are recommended if you are experiencing symptoms associated with abnormal levels of magnesium, including:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Irritability
  • Twitching
  • Cramping
  • Confusion
  • Cardiac arrhythmia
  • Seizures
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

Magnesium Advocacy Group tests are also recommended if you have abnormal calcium or potassium levels or when you have been prescribed magnesium for treatment purposes.

Benefits of Magnesium Advocacy Group Recommended Lab Testing with Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results.
  • You don't need health insurance.
  • You don't need a physician's referral.
  • You'll get affordable pricing.
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Order your Magnesium Advocacy Group lab tests today, and your results will be provided to you online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.


Take control with Ulta Lab Tests today!