We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.
Can you imagine being involved in over 300 critical roles across multiple departments around the clock? *Google searches the strongest pre-workout*
Magnesium, an essential mineral, helps carry out 300+ processes throughout the entire body: it helps your muscles contract, your heart maintain a normal rhythm, and so much more. Despite this, over half of the U.S. population is estimated not to get enough magnesium in their diets, according to a review1.
At GGR, we want you to fully experience all that magnesium can do from head-to-toe. So, our expert nutrition team rounded up and reviewed the best magnesium supplement options, thoroughly testing and scoring 14 different options. Weve chosen our top picks to help you reclaim those 300+ processes magnesium helps with!
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Before diving into our top magnesium supplements, lets uncap what the essential mineral is so you can better understand its importance. As the National Institutes of Health (NIH) tells us, magnesium is involved in over 300 cellular processes in the body, which alone signals just how important it is.
While well dive deeper into the benefits of magnesium throughout and compile them near the end (so be sure to stick with us!), its involved in energy production, protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and infinitely-ish more.
Despite its critical importance, magnesium has recently been named the forgotten electrolyte2 because it often doesnt receive attention like other electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. However, magnesium is still a key component in some of the best electrolyte drinks, although its found in other sources as well.
Magnesium is naturally found in various food sources, including spinach, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. And in general, foods rich in dietary fiber (found in most plants) tend to provide magnesium.
But like dietary fiber intake, Americans tend to fall shy of the recommended magnesium intake. The review1 estimates that 56 to 68% of Americans do not have enough magnesium in their daily diet.
How could this be? Many factors are at play, but diets rich in ultra-processed foods contain diminished magnesium levels. Common dietary staples in the Westernized diet contribute less than 20% of daily magnesium requirements.
Interestingly, too, vitamin D deficiency can reduce the absorption of magnesium. Alas, a deficiency of the sunshine vitamin is also on the riseso one of the best vitamin D supplements may help.
Speaking of supplements, magnesium also comes in supplemental form often on its own, in the best multivitamins for men and women, or another elixir blend. There are many forms of supplemental magnesiumlike magnesium glycinate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium oxidethat each comes with its own benefits and potential side effects, which well touch upon.
Of course, we always encourage eating more wholesome, nutrient-rich foods to lower deficiency risks and optimize your health. But we likewise understand supplements can and do have their time and place to fill in any nutritional gaps, and that is exactly why we want to share our top magnesium supplements with you and how the various forms could enrich your health.
Good for: Enhancing your daily magnesium intake with high-quality, third-party tested capsules
Best Overall
GGR Score: 4.25
Check Price3 tablets provides 300 g of magnesium bisglycinate
Transparent list of ingredients
Reportedly high bioavailability
Benefits include improved sleep, recovery, and energy
Vegan-friendly
Transparent Labs' Magnesium Bisglycinate tablets provide 300 grams of reportedly highly bioavailable, non-laxative magnesium supplement intended to improve sleep, recovery, and energy levels. As a vegan-friendly product, this affordable supplement receives raves reviews. While the vast majority of users report very positive benefits when taking this magnesium, there are a few outliers who did not appreciate the inclusion of silicone dioxide.
Transparent Labs provides high-quality products and full transparency about them, its single-ingredient magnesium supplement included. As our best magnesium supplement overall, lets see what this single-ingredient magnesium supplement is all about.
Each three-capsule serving provides 300 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate chelate, a combo of magnesium and the amino acid glycine. Also known as magnesium glycinate and chelated magnesium, magnesium bisglycinate provides great absorbability with fewer side effectslike diarrhea and abdominal crampingcompared to other forms of magnesium.
GGR head of content Kate Meier tested Transparent Labs magnesium out, and said the capsules are quite largeand you have to take three per serving. Keep that in mind if you dont like swallowing pills.
While we cover dosing in full below, how much supplemental magnesium you get varies based on many factorslike the intended use and the amount of magnesium you consume from food sources. But to provide context for Transparent Labs 300-milligram dose, and the other options ahead, the Daily Value (DV) for magnesium is 420 milligrams daily for an adult male and 320 milligrams for an adult female.
Like all Transparent Lab products, its magnesium supplement is free of artificial ingredients and third-party tested. You can even view its Certificate of Analysis (COA), aligning perfectly with the brands commitment to transparency.
TypeCapsules Form of Magnesium Magnesium BisglycinateMagnesium Per Serving 300 mg (71% DV)Dosing InstructionsTake 3 capsules with or without a meal once or twice dailyCost$16.99/30 servings = $0.57/servingGood for: Supporting your daily fitness, health, and magnesium goals
Best for Athletes
GGR Score: 4.15
Check PriceCommitted to providing clinically effective doses and total formulation transparency, Legion is a supplement brand we trust and regularly recommend. And supposedly providing a scientifically proven form of magnesium that supports athletic performance, amongst other benefits, Legion Sucrosomial Magnesium could be a great option for athletes and health enthusiasts alike.
If youre wondering what Sucrosominal Magnesium is all about, its a patented form of magnesium oxide protected by a sucrosomial complex trademarked by Maypro. The company website tells us that phospholipids and sucrose esters cover magnesium to enhance absorptionand apparently absorb faster with 20 percent higher bioavailability than magnesium citrate. A study3 further suggests that sucrosomial magnesium leads to an increased bioavailability of magnesium compared to other forms like magnesium oxide.
And regarding those athletic benefits, out of all of the minerals, magnesium (and iron) has the strongest quality evidence4 for improving athletic and muscle performance. But given that magnesium helps with energy metabolism and muscle function, its unsurprising that it may support athletic endeavors.
Specific to magnesium oxide, theres some research5 hinting that supplementing with it for 12 weeks seems to improve physical performance in healthy older women. Overall, because adequate magnesium levels6 are positively linked to muscle performance and cardiorespiratory health during aerobic exercise, adequate intake should be emphasized over the form.
Like all Legion products, we appreciate that the magnesium supplement is free of artificial ingredients. Oh, and Legion offers a no return necessary money-back guarantee and will give you a full refund on the spotno forms or return necessary!
And as the magnesium-rich cherry on top, Legion products are also made in U.S.-based, National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-certified, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-inspected, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)-compliant facilities. They also undergo third-party testing to ensure it meets FDA purity standards, and you can even view each products COA on the Sucrosomial Magnesium product page.
GGR head of content Kate Meier tested Legions magnesium and said the pill was easy to swallowshe appreciated the serving size is only one capsule, too. She regularly takes magnesium and didnt notice any interruption or side effects when swapping this product in, which is a good thing.
TypeCapsulesForm of magnesium Sucrosomial magnesium (magnesium oxide)Magnesium per serving 150 mg (36% DV)Dosing instructionsInstructions are not denoted on the product page, although a serving size is 1 capsuleCost$29.99/120 servings = $0.25Good for: Those who need a high magnesium dose to treat anxiety-related symptoms
Best High-Dose
GGR Score: 4
Check PriceLifeForce Magnesium is a high-dose magnesium supplement that may help alleviate anxiety-related symptoms.
If youre looking for the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to dosage, LifeForce Magnesium contains 315 milligrams of magnesium per three-tablet serving. Registered dietitian Laila Ouldibbat says that amount is perfect for anyone looking to take magnesium to alleviate stress or anxiety-related symptoms.
Glad it falls within the recommended daily allowance and stress dose,' Laila says. A review of studies on magnesium found supplementing with the micronutrient reduced stress-related symptoms such as mild anxiousness, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and hypertension. There were no improvements in postpartum anxiety, the study found.
Laila warns, however, that users should know how much magnesium theyre getting from their food in addition to this magnesium supplement. The average adult should limit themselves to 350 milligrams of magnesium per daynot far from the 315 mg dose. Excess magnesium could lead to an upset gastro-intestinal tract.
Kate Meier, GGR head of content and expert product tester, didnt notice much of a change in her mood during her testing. She added that the tablets were large and very chalky.
I couldnt take all three at once, Kate says.
TypeTabletsForm of magnesium Magnesium bis-glycinate chelate, magnesium L-threonate, di-magnesium malate, magnesium n-acetyltaurinateMagnesium per serving 315 mgDosing instructions3 tabletsCost$60/30 servings = $2/servingGood for: Boosting magnesium levels and supporting an intelligent noggin
Best for Brain Health
GGR Score: 4
Check PriceDouble Wood Magnesium Threonate provides a high-quality source of magnesium, and it's third-party tested with testing results and COAs available on the website. Even though each serving size is four capsules, they're relatively small and easy to swallow.
A serving of Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate provides 144 milligrams of magnesium sourced from Magtein, the patented name for magnesium L-threonate (MgT). According to Magceutics, the company that owns the Magtein patent, magnesium L-threonate is a mineral salt of magnesium, a brain-bioavailable form of magnesium that is typically well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects. This type of magnesium is often considered the best for brain health.
Most of the research on the effects of magnesium L-threonate are animal studies, including these and studies19 that imply MgT improves brain-related functions like learning and memory. Fast forward to , a study20 suggests that Magtein, paired with vitamins C and D, may improve memory and cognition in healthy adults.
Our tester didnt notice any particularly strong benefits from using Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate, but mentioned they were pleasantly surprised by the capsule size, rating the swallowability a 5 out of 5. They said, The serving size is four pills that are all roughly the size of a quarter. I was able to get them down in one swig. Theres no taste either, which helps with getting them down.
While the front of the bottle says 2,000 milligrams per serving, the nutrition label clarifies that this provides 144 milligrams of elemental magnesium, which is the total amount of active magnesium in the 2,000 milligrams of magnesium salt.
The capsules are manufactured in the United States, and are gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. Double Wood also uses third-party testing for these capsules, and you can see the Certificate of Analysis and third-party testing results on the company website.
TypeCapsulesForm of magnesium Magtein magnesium l-threonate Magnesium per serving 144 mg (34% DV)Dosing instructionsTake up to 4 capsules per day, 2 in the morning and 2 in the eveningCost$24.95/25 servings = $1.20/servingGood for: Supplementing with a high absorbable magnesium at a lower cost
Best Budget
GGR Score: 4
Check Price2 capsules provide 200 mg or chelated magnesium glycinate
Claimed to have high absorption
Chelated to reduce and prevent digestion issues
Formulated to promote muscle relaxation and heart, nerve, and bone health
Formulated with 200 milligrams of chelated magnesium glycinate, two capsules of Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate capsules are claimed to promote muscle relaxation and heart, nerve, and bone health. According to Nature Made, the chelation process is intended to reduce or prevent digestion issues. If you struggle swallowing large pills, you should note that there are a few consumers who found the pill size to be too large.
While great for any budget, Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate is far from low-quality! And for extra savings, and longer-term use, we recommend snagging the 180-count filled with 90 servingsthis amounts to about $0.57 per day versus about $0.70 per day for the 60-count, 30-day supply.
Your health-devoted $0.55 per day provides 200 milligrams of highly absorbable magnesium glycinate to support a healthy heart, bones, and nervous system. This form of magnesium may also be gentler on the stomach than others like magnesium oxide.
GGR performance editor Anthony OReilly tried these Nature Made tablets and said for the price, you cant beat them. Did it help me fall asleep? Yes, but not to the point where Id take them every night, he says. I do take them now if I need to fall asleep quickly, such as the night before a flight or something like that.
Although Nature Made prides itself on being the first vitamin brand to earn United States Pharmacopeia (USP) verification on many of its products, theres no sign online that its magnesium supplement is. But we like that its free of synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, and gluten.
TypeCapsulesForm of magnesium Magnesium bisglycinateMagnesium per serving 200 mg (48% DV)Dosing instructionsTake 2 capsules daily with water and a meal Cost$50.97/90 servings = $0.57/servingGood for: Promoting regularity one magnesium capsule at a time
Best for Constipation
GGR Score: 4
Check Price1 pill provides 400 mg magnesium
Claimed to be a required cofactor for 300 enzymes
Stated to be critical for energy production and metabolism
Reportedly aids nerve impulse transmission and bone mineralization
GMP qualityassured, NPA A-rated
NOW Magnesium pills each contain 400 milligrams of magnesium, which NOW claims to be a necessary cofactor for 300 enzymes and critical for energy production, metabolism, nerve impulse transmission, and bone mineralization. This supplement is GMP qualityassured and NPA A-rated. However, there are some who experienced laxative effects when taking this.
Google search magnesium functions, and youll find roles related to helping with muscle and nerve function, managing blood sugar levels, regulating blood pressure, and supporting immune health, amongst others. Search for magnesium citrate, it makes sense why NOW Magnesium Citrate is crowned to send you back to your porcelain throne.
NOW provides 400 milligrams of magnesium citrate, a form of magnesium well known for its laxative effects. It works by increasing fluid in the small intestine, thus softening the stool and relieving constipation, often within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
GGR staff writer Lauren Strong says this magnesium was recommended to her for pelvic floor health, as well as regularity, by her physical therapist. I like that the one pill has a 400-milligram dose, which is exactly how much Im supposed to take.
Early research11 shows that magnesium citrate is more soluble and bioavailable than magnesium oxide, another form of magnesium commonly used to treat constipation. Newer research12 confirms and supports the former data, suggesting magnesium citrate may be more suitable than magnesium oxide for optimizing dietary magnesium intake.
To totally support your gut health, we recommend checking out the best prebiotic, best probiotic, and best fiber supplements (especially if you arent getting enough of these in your daily diet).
But back to the NOW, its magnesium citrate is not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, egg, fish, shellfish, and tree nuts. However, its made in a GMP facility (great to see!) that processes common food allergens (so please select accordingly).
TypeCapsulesForm of magnesium Magnesium citrateMagnesium per serving 400 mg (95% DV)Dosing instructionsTake 3 capsules daily, preferably in divided doses, with foodCost$21.45/80 servings = $0.27/servingGood for: Alleviating migraines and increasing magnesium intake with one daily capsule
Best Magnesium Supplement for Migraines
GGR Score: 4.25
Check PriceNature Made magnesium oxide tablets provide 250 milligrams per capsule and can support muscle relaxation, nerve, heart, and bone health. Magnesium oxide specifically can help manage headaches as well.
Did you know magnesium can help with migraines? According to the American Migraine Foundation, a 400 to 600-milligram dose of magnesium oxide may prevent migraines. A recent study13 further supports that magnesium oxide may be as effective as valproate sodium14, a medication for migraines.
Nature Made provides 400 milligrams of magnesium oxide per 1 soft gel serving, aligning with the 400 to 600 milligram dose for migraine. Beyond managing and preventing migraines, the Nature Made magnesium supplement is formulated to support bone, nerve, and heart health.
Its important to note that magnesium oxide can have a strong laxative effect and is the reason why its often used to treat constipation.
GGR senior editor Nicole Davis has been supplementing with Nature Mades magnesium oxide to help with headaches during pregnancy, and has noticed a huge improvement in her symptomsconsider her sold!
And as previously mentioned, many of Nature Mades products are third-party tested and certified through USP. But like its magnesium glycinate supplement, theres no indication of USP certification on magnesium oxides product page.
TypeTabletsForm of magnesium Magnesium oxideMagnesium per serving 400 mg (95% DV)Dosing instructionsTake 1 softgel daily with water and a mealCost$13.99/60 servings = $0.20/servingGood for: Mixing and sipping a lightly-sweetened, third-party tested magnesium powder
Best Powder
GGR Score: 4
Check PriceLightly sweetened powder providing 200 mg of magnesium bisglycinate
Formulated to promote sleep and muscle relaxation
NSF-certified
Claimed to support muscles, tendons, bone, heart, vascular, and foundational health
Stated to be well-tolerated and well-absorbed
Lightly sweetened with monk fruit, Thornes Magnesium Bisglycinate delivers 200 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate per scoop. According to Thorne, this form of magnesium is both well-tolerated and well-absorbed. Formulated to promote sleep and muscle relaxation, Thorne also claims it will support muscle, tendons, bone, heart, vascular, and foundational health.
Thorne Research is known for its high-quality ingredients in clinically effective doses, even collaborating with Mayo Clinic, and thats one of the reasons why we awarded it the best iron supplement overall. All this to say, its really not so surprising that its magnesium powder landed on our top picks.
Formulated to promote restful sleep and muscle relaxation, one scoop of the taste-free powder provides 200 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate. While the powder does not indicate a specific flavor, it is sweetened with the natural sweetener monk fruit. Its also free from gluten, added sugars, thickeners, and artificial flavors and colors.
Thornes facilities are verified by multiple international third-party organizations, including Australias Therapeutic Goods Administration, a regulatory agency run by the Australian Government Department of Health. Thorne supplements are also NSF Certified for Sport, meaning they have been tested for and are free of over 200 substances banned by many major sports organizations.
TypePowderForm of Magnesium Magnesium bisglycinate Magnesium Per Serving 200 mg (48% DV)Dosing InstructionsInstructions are not denoted on the product page, although a serving size is 1 scoopCost$48.00/60 servings = $0.80/servingGood for: Obtaining multiple forms of magnesium with a single goal of increasing daily intake
Best Complex
GGR Score: 4.15
Check PriceEach serving provides 100 mg of magnesium (bisglycinate chelate and magnesium oxide)
Magnesium and amino acid combination claimed to enhance bioavailability
Chelation process intended to prevent stomach discomfort
Hypoallergenic supplement
Formulated to promote sleep and reduce muscle cramps
Klaire Labs Magnesium Glycinate Complex delivers 100 milligrams of magnesium per serving, utilizing a combination of magnesium bisglycinate chelate and magnesium oxide, which creates a unique chelated compound. The chelation process is intended to improve bioavailability while reducing potential stomach discomfort. The supplement is hypoallergenic and formulated to promote better sleep and reduce muscle cramps, which most users seem to experience.
Is taking more than one form of magnesium best? According to Klaire Labs, a blend of four bioavailable forms of magnesium allows your body to optimally absorb and use this vital mineral. But you know how we roll at GGR, so lets dig into the data.
Klaire Labs Mag Complete provides 240 milligrams of magnesium sourced from four different forms of magnesium: magnesium succinate, magnesium taurinate (also referred to as magnesium taurate or acetyl taurate), magnesium malate, and magnesium aspartate.
A study15 suggests magnesium acetyl taurate and malate forms have higher absorbability than magnesium citrate and oxide, while magnesium aspartate shows to compensate for deficiency more effectively and faster than 10+ other forms according to data.16 However, its important to note that the results are based on animal studies, and more human studies should be conducted.
Interestingly, GGR staff writer Lauren Strong found that Mag Complete gave her trouble sleeping. It was noticeable that I wasnt falling asleep as easily as I do with other magnesium blends. And while this is not the common side effect, we thought we should call it out.
TypeCapsulesForm of magnesium Magnesium succinate, magnesium taurinate, magnesium malate, magnesium aspartateMagnesium per serving 240 mg (57% DV)Dosing instructionsTake 2 capsules, 2 times daily with foodCost$23.90/60 servings = $0.40/servingGood for: Kids and adults alike who prefer chewable nutrients beyond their food
Best Gummy
GGR Score: 4
Check PriceWatermelon or tangerine-flavored gummies
Each serving provides 84 mg of magnesium citrate
Formulated to enhance mood, focus, energy, and gut health
Claimed to relieve muscle cramps
100% organic ingredients
If you prefer chewables over capsules, Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies come in either watermelon or tangerine flavor, each of which contains 84 milligrams of magnesium citrate. According to Trace Minerals, these 100% organic gummies are formulated to improve mood, focus, energy, and gut health, while also relieving muscle cramps. Although the majority of reviewers appreciated the taste, some found it too sugary and sweet.
You should ideally bite into magnesium-rich foodslike leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grainson a daily basis. But Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies can conveniently supplement your magnesium intake in just a few chews.
One gummy serving provides 84 milligrams of magnesium citrate to support a healthy mood, energy levels, and mental focus. The small dose in each gummy makes them suitable for children and Trace Minerals recommends kids aged 4 to 12 years to chew 1 gummy per day. Anyone aged 13 and older can chew 1 gummy up to 4 times daily spread throughout the day to mitigate the laxative effect of magnesium citrate.
Like most gummy supplements, all three flavorsPeach, Tangerine, and Watermeloncontain added sugars sourced from organic cane sugar and organic tapioca syrup. But unlike most gummies, these are gelatin-free, making them a great option for a vegan diet.
GGR head of content Kate Meier tried these gummies, and she said not only are they delicious, they work, too. I take four at a time; they provide a very calming effect and help me sleep. I have wild dreams, too!
Speaking of, Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies are Certified Vegan and also free of gluten and GMOs. While no identifiable logo indicates additional third-party testing, Trace Minerals claims its rigorous standards and certifications from manufacturing to packaging guarantee clean, trustworthy products.
TypeGummiesForm of magnesium Magnesium citrate Magnesium per serving 84 mg (20% DV)Dosing instructionsChildren ages 4 to 12, chew 1 gummy per day; for ages 13 and older, chew 1 gummy up to 4 times daily alone or at mealtimeCost$19.99/120 servings = $0.17/servingGood for: Combatting day-to-day stress one sip of magnesium at a time
Best for Stress
GGR Score: 4.25
Check PriceFormulated with 330 mg of magnesium citrate per serving
Designed to reduce stress and improve sleep and energy
Claimed to be better absorbed than other forms of magnesium
May be taken by both children and adults
Orange-flavored gummies
Vegan- and non-GMOverified
Natural Vitalitys Calm gummies provide 330 milligrams of magnesium citrate per serving, which is claimed to be better absorbed by the body than other forms of magnesium. Formulated to help reduce stress and improve sleep and energy, these gummies may be taken by adults or children. While most users appreciate the orange and raspberry lemon taste, these gummies do contain sugar and may be too sweet for some users preferences.
Breathe in, breathe out Sip Natural Vitality Calm, and mellow out. If youre seeing this Natural Vitality, new slogan? And if youre seeing this in hopes of managing stress, Natural Calm might be your newest supplement stack addition.
The calming magnesium powder provides 350 milligrams of magnesium carbonate in a 2-tablespoon serving size. Magnesium carbonate is joined with citric acid, so when theyre added to water, it forms magnesium citratebut does it really ease stress?
Link to Meishen
Explore more:Based on a review1, emotional stresswhether related to excitement, anxiety, or depressionincreases the need for magnesium. This is likely because magnesium converts tryptophan to serotonin, a neurotransmitter majorly linked to mental health and mood. Complementary evidence published in Nutritional Neuroscience17 suggests magnesium supplementation may prevent depression and be an adjunctive therapy.
The magnesium-calming drink comes in its original, unflavored option and five flavorsCherry, Lemon, Orange, Raspberry Lemon, and Watermelonall free of added sugar, fructose, and artificial colors and flavors.
I have taken Natural Calm, either as a powder or as gummies, on and off for years, says GGR head of content Kate Meier. I love it. I always sleep better when I take it (and it always gives me dreams that are totally bananas!). I started off just taking two at a time, and now I take four gummies.
TypeDrink Mix (5 flavor options)Form of magnesium magnesium carbonateMagnesium per serving 350 mg (83% DV)Dosing instructionsAdd 2 tsp to 2-3 oz water, let it fizz, then stir and enjoyCost$22.77/113 servings = $0.20/serving (for Original on Amazon)While we stand by our top picks, we also researched these other magnesium supplements, which we havent had a chance to try yet:
Wanna get in on a little secret? When picking and testing the best magnesium supplements, our team of registered dietitians and licensed nutrition experts use our supplement testing methodology to look at things like:
Active in over 300 processes in the body, the health benefits of magnesium follow suit. Heres how magnesium supplements could enhance your health for the better:1
While magnesium supplements are mostly considered safe, you should still dose them accordingly. Magnesium can also interact with certain medications and supplements, posing serious risks and reducing effectiveness.
While theres no standardized magnesium supplement dose, the tolerable upper limit of magnesium supplementation is 350 milligrams per day without side effects. However, higher levels can be used as indicated, but consuming too much magnesium can lead to digestive diarrhea, muscle weakness, and other adverse side effects.1
As a starting point, its wise to understand how much magnesium you need each day. Provided by the NIH, the RDAs (or the average daily intake to meet nutrient requirements) below indicate the amount of magnesium to consume based on life stage.
AgeMaleFemalePregnancyLactationBirth to 6 months*30 mg30 mg7-12 months75 mg75 mg1-3 years80 mg80 mg4-8 years130 mg130 mg9-13 years240 mg240 mg14-18 years410 mg360 mg400 mg360 mg19-30 years400 mg310 mg350 mg310 mg31-50 years420 mg320 mg360 mg320 mg51+ years420 mg320 mg*Recommendation based on Adequate Intake (AI)
Did you know certain nutrients can interfere with how other supplements and medications work in the body? This can downplay anticipated results and even be really dangerous in some instances. The NIH tells us that magnesium supplements can interact or interfere with some medicines and supplements, including:
But before taking any sort of supplement, we always recommend consulting with a dietitian, doctor, or another healthcare professional. They can help you determine a dose of magnesium right for you, especially if you have high or low levels of magnesium, and review any interaction risks.
Did you know that dietary supplements arent tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)? This is why we always prioritize companies who voluntarily have their products third-party tested to verify purity and safety. Reputable, third-party testing stamps to look out for include:
The FDA does, however, establish Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) regulations for quality assurance that we recommend looking out for. Products can also be certified to help consumers make well-informed decisions related to specific dietary restrictions and preferences, like being Certified Gluten-Free or USDA Organic.
Before committing to and starting a magnesium supplement, make sure you check off these boxes to find one that best supports your nutritional needs and goals:
The NIH mentions some forms of magnesiumlike magnesium in the aspartate, citrate, and chloride formsare better absorbed than magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate.
However, a meta-analysis23 suggests that all magnesium supplements can maintain physiological levels in healthy individuals.
Moreover, each form of magnesium offers different benefits, so its best to take the one that supports your health goals and needs. For instance, magnesium citrate shows to be the most effective for managing constipation due to its laxative effects, while magnesium L-threonate may benefit brain health more.
Because magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate appear well-absorbed but offer different health benefits, its best to take the one that addresses your needs. Magnesium citrate is more effective for managing constipation due to its laxative effects, whereas magnesium glycinate may be best for promoting general health and wellness.
All forms of magnesium appear safe, although magnesium citrate and oxide are known to cause digestive distress. Dosing according to the products instructions and, ideally, under medical guidance is also essential.
Although a meta-analysis24 suggests magnesium supplementation may reduce body mass index (BMI), theres no definitive type best for weight loss. Magnesium supplements should be used to ensure adequate intake of the mineral rather than a weight loss aid.
The answer, as always, is it depends, and also the time of day isnt as important as taking it on a consistent basis. If youre more likely to remember to take your supplement in the morning then do it then, but if its easier for you at night then theres no problem with that.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
if ($author['socials'][$media] && $value != '') : ?> endif; ?> if ($author['socials'][$media] && $value != '') : ?> endif; ?> if ($author['socials'][$media] && $value != '') : ?> endif; ?>
Sydney Lappe is a St. Louis-based Registered Dietitian with 6+ years of nutrition editing and writing experience. She holds a Masters Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and completed undergrad work in psychology. While fitness wasnt in Sydneys routine growing up, it quickly became a large part of her daily life while studying the facets of health and nutrition. Also managing chronic pain, she has come to fully realize movement is a special gift to never take for granted and hopes to inspire others to invest in their physical, mental, and emotional wellness while they can. Including her passion for all things health, Sydney enjoys spending time with her loved ones, being active in various capacities, drinking bottomless cups of coffee, eating a hearty bowl of oatmeal, and letting her creativity roam through writing and graphic design.
Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.Its true that magnesium oxide is less soluble than several other forms of supplemental magnesium.
However, magnesium oxide is at least as effective (if not better) at restoring and maintaining a healthy level of magnesium in your cells and bones.
How is this possible? Ill explain!
But before I do, we need to understand how magnesium is absorbed.
In all its natural forms, magnesium is bound to another chemical compound, for example: carbonate; gluconate; citrate; lactate; aspartate; or oxide. The combinations of magnesium and one of these compounds are called magnesium salts.
When you consume any magnesium salt, the magnesium must be freed from its partner compound during digestion and made soluble (ionized). Once it is made soluble, your body can absorb the magnesium.
For this to happen effectively, stomach acid has to be present. So its also helpful to remember that:
Its best to take your supplements with a meal because your stomach responds to your consumption of food by secreting stomach acid.
Its true that magnesium oxide is not as easy to render soluble as some other magnesium salts. Its therefore not absorbed as rapidly as other forms of magnesium, e.g. magnesium citrate, gluconate, lactate, aspartate.
But although magnesium oxide has a lower rate of absorption it contains a MUCH greater amount of actual magnesium to begin with. More than what is provided by other magnesium salts.
Therefore, even with the lower rate of absorption, magnesium oxide still delivers more magnesium per tablet. So more magnesium gets into your bloodstream to deliver all its many benefits to your bones and body!
This is illustrated in the table Comparison of Magnesium Salts below: 1-2
Comparison of Magnesium Salts MG Salt % Elemental MG % Elemental MG Absorbed Mgs of Elemental MG Absorbed per 100 mg of MG SaltOxide
60%
23%*
13.8
Carbonate
28%
~20% **
~5.2
Chloride
26%
20%
5.2
L-lactate
12%
42%
5
Citrate
11%
30%
3.3
Aspartate
8%
42%
3.3
Glycinate
14%
23%
3.2
Gluconate
6%
19%
1.14
*On the web, youll see many sites claiming that only 4% of the magnesium in magnesium oxide is absorbed. This claim is based upon a small study by Firoz et al. (), which is discussed fully below. The actual data in this study shows something very different. The stated percentage of elemental magnesium absorbed from magnesium oxide in the above table 23% is the statistic provided in a review and meta-analysis of numerous studies by Ranade et al., (), cited below.
**Magnesium carbonate is nearly insoluble, but in the presence of stomach acid (HCl), magnesium carbonate is converted into magnesium chloride, which allows 20% of elemental magnesium to be absorbed.
As you can see, magnesium oxide contains the most elemental magnesium of 60%. And 23% of this can be absorbed.
Magnesium citrate, for example, contains only 11% elemental magnesium. And only 30% of this is absorbed.
So the percentage of elemental magnesium to begin with is just as important as the rate of absorption.
You can get comparable or better health benefits with magnesium oxide. And youll also require fewer capsules, which will save you time and money.
The research most often cited to disparage magnesium oxide is a small study by Firoz et al. of 16 volunteers. The aim of this study was to test the claim that organic (chelated) magnesium salts (e.g., aspartate, lactate) are more easily absorbed than non-organic salts (e.g., oxide, chloride).3
The 16 volunteers were given four commercially-available magnesium salts: 2 organic (aspartate, lactate) and 2 non-organic (oxide, chloride), after which the amount of magnesium in their urine was checked. More magnesium excreted in the urine is thought to indicate that more magnesium has been absorbed; less magnesium excreted is thought to indicate that less magnesium has been absorbed. This rationale is based on the principle that the body works hard to maintain a steady state of magnesium balance, and in a steady state of magnesium balance, any extra magnesium absorbed will be excreted in the urine.
In this study, those taking magnesium oxide excreted less magnesium on average. So magnesium oxide was said to have a low fractional absorption rate of 4%. However, there are 2 important points not shared in this study:
Half of the volunteers in this study excreted more or very comparable amounts of magnesium when taking magnesium oxide
as they did when taking the other magnesium salts. Take a look for yourself at the table below
Urinary Magnesium, mg/day
. The data in the following table is taken directly from Firoz M, et als article in
Magnesium Research
.
Averaging out the data produces a result that does not reflect what actually happened in the participants. Yet, what was reported is repeatedly cited on the internet. This is why I always read the full paper of any study I am going to rely upon for information.
2. Most importantly, the key practical discovery made in this study was: Magnesium excretion increased with all magnesium supplements. What this means is that all the magnesium salts tested, including magnesium oxide, delivered more magnesium than was needed to meet the bodys magnesium balance requirement.
Urinary Magnesium, mg/day Study participant MG oxide MG chloride MG aspartate MG lactate Control 1* Control 2*A
100
156
95
114
77
70
B
95
43
78
65
68
43
C
101
89
103
137
75
32
D
66
120
137
161
100
103
E
78
166
101
119
134
65
F
63
144
88
48
56
67
G
84
78
76
67
74
61
H
142
182
214
198
128
129
I
78
39
55
62
102
60
J
114
112
110
76
53
86
K
77
106
177
116
80
32
L
114
94
137
117
109
92
M
66
87
51
81
104
115
N
82
82
82
163
76
85
O
162
133
85
106
75
75
p
34
120
58
87
28
57
*Controls did not receive any supplemental magnesium.
Despite what you may have read on various websites, the peer-reviewed research on PubMed shows that magnesium oxide is effectively absorbed:
In a study involving 18 men, 24 hours after consumption of magnesium oxide supplements, magnesium levels in the urine increased about two times the normal amount. And, after 48 hours, magnesium levels had increased to roughly four times normal. The conclusion drawn by the researchers: these results clearly show that magnesium oxide is effectively absorbed and elevates the biologically-active levels of magnesium in the bloodstream. 4
Its important to note here that magnesium oxide did not increase urinary excretion of magnesium within a couple of hours. This is an important point which Ill explain below in Higher bioavailability does not translate to more effective delivery to tissues.
All forms of magnesium salts used in animal studies have been found to effectively restore magnesium levels in magnesium-depleted animals.
In one such study in , rats were first given a magnesium-depleted diet and then provided with the same diet supplemented with 10 different magnesium salts: magnesium oxide, chloride, sulfate, carbonate, acetate, picolate, citrate, gluconate, lactate or aspartate. The results showed that while magnesium absorption values varied from 50% to 67%, all the magnesium salts used were equally efficient in restoring magnesium levels.5
The researchers also noted that the quantity of magnesium in the digestive tract is the major factor controlling the amount of magnesium absorbed. And as you now know, magnesium oxide contains a far greater amount of elemental magnesium than any of the other magnesium salts .5
A more recent animal study confirmed and strengthened these findings. In this one, for 5 weeks, rats were fed one of eight test diets supplemented with phytic acid (5 g/kg diet) and magnesium (155 mg elemental Mg/kg diet) from the following magnesium salts: magnesium oxide; magnesium sulfate; magnesium chloride; magnesium citrate; magnesium gluconate; magnesium orotate; and magnesium malate or EDTA magnesium salt.
The addition of phytic acid to the animals diet is important because phytic acid binds strongly to minerals and forms an insoluble complex. This means less of the minerals consumed can be absorbed. Despite the addition of phytic acid to the animals diet, all the magnesium salts tested were found to be comparably bioavailable: The results indicate that any differences in the magnesium bioavailability of the compounds were small and physiologically irrelevant. 6
When a magnesium supplement is highly bioavailable, it will be rapidly absorbed from the small intestine into the bloodstream, and magnesium blood levels will quickly rise. This sounds good, but when blood magnesium levels exceed a critical threshold, the excess is rapidly excreted by the kidneys. The end result is a shorter duration of magnesium availability to tissues. Magnesium salts with the greatest water solubility, bioavailability and rate of absorption are also more rapidly excreted in urine.
The lower parts of the small intestine are the primary sites of magnesium absorption. However, magnesium is also absorbed throughout the entire intestinal tract. Magnesium does not have special carriers that pull it into the bloodstream. Its absorption is a passive transcellular process.
For this kind of absorption process, the quantity of magnesium that passes through the digestive tract is the major factor controlling the amount of magnesium that is absorbed.
Because magnesium oxide contains more elemental magnesium and is less soluble, its absorbed into the bloodstream more slowly as it passes through the digestive tract. It will not raise blood levels excessively, and will therefore not be rapidly excreted. 5,7.8
You can get the same benefits from magnesium oxide with fewer pills. Magnesium oxide is the most effective magnesium supplement and that is why it was selected for use in AlgaeCal Plus.
What is the best form of magnesium to take?
Magnesium oxide is at least as effective (if not better) at restoring and maintaining a healthy magnesium level in your cells and bones. Although magnesium oxide has a lower absorption rate, it contains much more elemental magnesium than other magnesium salts.
Should I take magnesium in the morning or at night?
Many people take magnesium at night because it can help them relax and sleep better. However, it does not cause drowsiness if taken during the day.
How do you know if you are magnesium deficient?
Some signs of magnesium deficiency include muscle spasms or cramps, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, and pins and needles.
Will magnesium oxide help you sleep?
Any form of magnesium can help with sleep, but research shows magnesium glycinate may be most effective for enhancing quality sleep.
For more Magnesium Oxide Bulkinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Comments
Please Join Us to post.
0