Magnesium is an essential mineral that is required for many physiological processes in the body. It is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions including muscle and nerve function, energy production, and the regulation of blood pressure and glucose levels.
Many people do not get enough magnesium in their diet, and then in such cases, magnesium supplements can help maintain adequate levels of this essential mineral in the body.
Three of the most common forms of magnesium supplements are magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate, and magnesium glycinate. Let’s get some necessary information about these forms of supplements;
Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium oxide is the most common form of magnesium supplement. It is an inexpensive and widely available form of magnesium. It is generally considered safe, and its absorption rate is relatively low compared to other forms of magnesium supplements. This means that a higher dose of magnesium oxide may be required to achieve the same effect as other forms of magnesium supplements.
The main advantage of magnesium oxide is its low cost, making it an affordable option for those looking to supplement their magnesium intake. However, its low absorption rate may make it less effective than other forms of magnesium supplements.
Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium than magnesium oxide but less absorbable form than that of magnesium glycinate. It is more expensive than magnesium oxide but has a higher absorption rate, making it a popular choice for those looking to supplement their magnesium intake.
Magnesium citrate has a laxative effect, which may be helpful for those with constipation or bowel irregularities. However, to some people it may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as bloating, and gas.
Magnesium Glycinate
Magnesium glycinate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium. It has a high absorption rate and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects than other forms of magnesium supplements.
Magnesium glycinate is also known for its calming effect on the body and may be helpful for those looking to reduce stress and improve sleep quality also. However, it is generally more expensive than other forms of magnesium supplements.
Which Form of Magnesium Supplement is Best?
The best form of magnesium supplement depends on individual needs, situation or preferences. For those looking for an affordable option, magnesium oxide may be a good choice. However, those looking for a highly absorbable form of magnesium with fewer gastrointestinal side effects may prefer magnesium glycinate.
It is also essential to consider other factors, such as individual health conditions, medications, and overall diet, when choosing a magnesium supplement. So it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Magnesium is normally taken for constipation, for low magnesium levels, as an antacid for heartburn, and for pregnancy complications called pre-eclampsia.
Magnesium intake can benefits as follows;
- Boosts in everyday wellness
- Helps to maintain muscle and nerve function
- Helps in better sleep
- Increased energy levels and improved mood
- Helps lower blood pressure
- Helps regulation of glucose level
- Helps to reduce the risk of heart disease
- May help improve migraines
People taking medications should better consult with a doctor before taking magnesium. If you have diabetes, heart, intestinal, or kidney disease, it’s better to speak with your healthcare provider before taking a magnesium supplement.
Magnesium supplements can be taken at any time of the day. It should be taken with a meal. Taking magnesium supplements on an empty stomach may cause diarrhea.
Someone who is facing little difficulty falling asleep could take magnesium at night. As magnesium supplement is responsible for getting you calm and relaxed, it helps you give quality and quantity of sleep.
While some people prefer to take a magnesium supplement in the morning to help with the energy production and stay active for the whole day.