Which psychiatric condition is associated with hypomagnesemia due to inadequate intake?

Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric condition characterized by self-imposed starvation, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a disturbed body image. Individuals suffering from this disorder often exhibit severely restricted dietary intake, leading to nutritional deficiencies, including hypomagnesemia, which is a low level of magnesium in the blood.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays critical roles in numerous bodily functions, including muscle function, nerve signaling, and energy production. When intake is inadequate, as often occurs in anorexia nervosa, magnesium levels can drop significantly, resulting in various health issues, including muscle cramps, fatigue, and neuropsychological symptoms.

While other eating disorders also involve atypical eating patterns and potential nutrient deficiencies, anorexia nervosa is particularly associated with inadequate intake due to its severe caloric restriction and the specific focus on weight control, making it most likely to lead to hypomagnesemia.