Magnesium supplements come in a diverse range, each offering unique health benefits. Whether you're seeking support for muscle function, heart health, restful sleep, or relief from constipation, there's a magnesium supplement for you. Options like magnesium oxide, glycinate, L-threonate, and citrate each provide unique advantages. The key is to choose the proper form and dosage that best suits your needs. Many supplements also contain additional nutrients like low levels of zinc or extra vitamin D, which enhance magnesium’s effects and absorption.
This comprehensive buying guide provides insights on how to find the best magnesium supplements in the U.S. that suit your needs — whether you're seeking vegan capsules, supplements that are good for sleep, or for specific conditions like constipation or high blood pressure. Reviewed by registered dietitian nutritionist Kathy Shattler, this guide navigates the different forms of magnesium and what supplements support absorption, ensuring you choose the best supplement for optimal health.
Quick List - Top Magnesium Supplement
Nature Made
High Absorption Magnesium for Relaxation and Overall Health
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for over 25 years, Kathy has mastered numerous medical specialties and teaching methods: health promotion, counseling, academic teaching, endocrinology, psychiatry/mental health, supplements, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, aging, and alternative medicine. Experiences include: -Managing her own telehealth/nutrition consulting business -Directing a continuing education program for RDs and nurses -Consulting for long-term care regulatory affairs -Working with State and local health departments -Coordinating diabetes education programs Her experiences led her to reach people with life-changing information as a medical editor and writer. For over five years, Kathy has acquired increasingly complex roles. Passionate about the root causes of disease, she obtained her certification in Integrative Medicine and Functional Nutrition from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics three years ago. This series continues to influence her approach to writing.
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Table of Contents
Magnesium plays a key role in numerous bodily functions, such as maintaining cardiac rhythm, and is essential for nerve transmission and muscle contraction.
Magnesium helps regulate muscle and nerve activity, supports a healthy immune system, and is vital for maintaining bone strength. Magnesium is also involved in protein synthesis, energy production, and blood pressure regulation, making it an essential component for overall health.
In the body, magnesium acts as a cofactor in over 600 enzymatic reactions, contributing to processes like muscle relaxation, neurotransmitter balance, and cardiovascular health. It helps maintain proper muscle function, prevents cramping, and supports restful sleep. Additionally, magnesium may play a role in managing stress levels, promoting calmness, and sustaining steady blood sugar levels.
Magnesium is also important for bone structure, plays a role in glucose and insulin metabolism, and has immunologic functions. It is also an antioxidant and plays a specific role in reducing oxidative stress in those with obesity.
Toxicity from excessive magnesium intake is rare and usually results in gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.
Rest assured, magnesium supplements are generally safe for most people when taken at recommended dosages. Magnesium is an essential mineral that the body needs, and supplements can help individuals meet their daily requirements, especially if they are deficient due to diet, stress, or certain medical conditions. Most adults can safely take magnesium supplements without experiencing side effects, particularly when using highly bioavailable forms like magnesium glycinate or citrate. However, following the dosage guidelines is important to avoid excessive intake.
Magnesium's tolerable upper limit is currently set at 350 mg. However, there has been a call for re-evaluating the TUL, as the optimal intake levels, in some cases, overlap with this number.
Oral magnesium supplementation is generally safe for adults when taken in dosages below the upper intake level of 350 mg per day of elemental magnesium. This amount is recommended for most people to avoid side effects like diarrhea or stomach cramps. However, higher dosages may be used under medical supervision to treat specific conditions, such as severe magnesium deficiency, chronic health issues affecting magnesium absorption, or conditions that may benefit from higher intakes than the RDI. For example, patients with mild hypomagnesemia may benefit from oral magnesium supplements as part of their long-term maintenance therapy after an initial intravenous correction.
Magnesium glycinate is easier for the body to absorb and has fewer side effects.
Magnesium glycinate is an ideal choice for individuals looking to increase their magnesium levels without experiencing the digestive discomfort often associated with other forms of magnesium. It is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body, making it suitable for those with sensitive stomachs or who need long-term supplementation to maintain healthy magnesium levels.
Additionally, magnesium glycinate supports muscle function and recovery, making it a great option for athletes or individuals dealing with muscle cramps or spasms. Its gentle nature and superior absorption also make it a preferred option for those who want a reliable source of magnesium to support overall wellness and physical performance.
Magnesium may impact stress by influencing GABA or enhancing the effects of serotonin, both neurotransmitters. It may also ease restless leg syndrome, which can prevent quality sleep. Most individuals use 200 mg before bed for more restful sleep.
Magnesium oxide is commonly used for chronic constipation, while magnesium citrate is used for occasional constipation.
Magnesium citrate may help individuals seeking relief from occasional constipation with a quick result. Magnesium citrate, with its high absorption rate, draws water into the intestines, helping it to hold onto it and soften stool to promote bowel movements.
Magnesium oxide, on the other hand, is typically chosen for those with chronic constipation because it can soften stools while being safer from potential side effects due to its lower bioavailability. Long-term treatment may not be suitable for everyone, so speaking with a doctor before starting supplementation is recommended.
A study has supported the efficacy of magnesium malate in treating fibromyalgia symptoms, easing muscle pain, and enhancing energy levels.
Magnesium malate may benefit individuals with muscle pain or low energy levels. This form of magnesium is involved in energy production through its role in the Krebs cycle, which is the body’s process of generating cellular energy. By supporting this fundamental energy pathway, magnesium malate may boost overall energy levels.
Additionally, magnesium malate may have an effect on conditions like fibromyalgia or muscle pain due to its ability to support proper muscle function. Its dual role in energy production and muscle support makes magnesium malate ideal for those needing a balance of physical vitality and muscle recovery.
Studies of magnesium L-threonate have shown improved learning and memory from increased magnesium uptake in neurons and improved sleep, mood, energy, and alertness.
Magnesium L-threonate may enhance cognitive health and brain function. This form of magnesium is notable for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than other types, making it particularly beneficial for supporting mental clarity, memory, and overall brain health.
Additionally, magnesium L-threonate positively impacts sleep quality, energy levels, and mood. By promoting better sleep and reducing symptoms of anxiety or low mood, it can contribute to an overall improved sense of well-being. This makes it a potentially valuable supplement for individuals who want to address both cognitive health and general mood or are interested in improving sleep quality.
Many magnesium supplements include low levels of zinc for better absorption. For enhanced bioavailability, look for supplements containing vitamins B6 and D to improve magnesium absorption further.
Individuals looking to maximize the benefits of their magnesium supplements should consider products that include additional nutrients like zinc, vitamin B6, or vitamin D. These nutrients can enhance magnesium absorption and utilization in the body. For example, vitamin D helps increase magnesium absorption in the intestines, ensuring that more of the mineral is effectively used for processes like muscle function, bone health, and nerve regulation. Vitamin B6, on the other hand, aids in the transport of magnesium into cells, making it more bioavailable and useful for bodily functions.
Vegetable capsules are the best option for vegans and vegetarians.
Individuals who prefer plant-based or vegetarian supplements should seek out magnesium in vegetable capsules or tablets. These formulations are often made using cellulose or Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), both of which are derived from plant sources and provide an alternative to gelatin-based capsules made from animal products. Vegetable capsules are ideal for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, as they align with dietary restrictions and ethical choices.
Additionally, vegetable capsules or tablets are often chosen for their potential to be less allergenic and better suited for sensitive digestive systems. Cellulose and HPMC are both hypoallergenic and less likely to cause gastrointestinal discomfort compared to some other capsule materials.
Be aware that the composition of the gel cap does not guarantee there are no fillers or additives inside; read the label for silica, titanium dioxide, magnesium stearate, and talc.
When choosing magnesium supplements, opting for organic products that are third-party tested is crucial for ensuring purity and quality. Organic certification indicates that the product is made without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or artificial additives, aligning with a clean, natural approach to health. Third-party testing provides an additional layer of assurance by verifying that the supplement meets high standards for ingredient quality and safety, free from contaminants like heavy metals or harmful substances.
Third-party testing also helps confirm that the supplement contains the amount of magnesium claimed on the label, providing confidence in its efficacy. For consumers opting for non-GMO products, this testing ensures that the product is not only free from genetically modified organisms but also adheres to the highest manufacturing standards. By choosing supplements with both organic certification and third-party validation, buyers can be assured of a product that supports their health goals while adhering to their values of purity and transparency.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||||
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Magnesium Dosage | Magnesium Types | Zinc | Vitamin B6 | Vitamin D | Vegetable Capsules/Tablets | Organic | Third-Party Certification | Unit Count | |||||
1 | BioEmblem Triple Complex Magnesium | ![]() | A Potent Blend | 300mg | Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Malate、Magnesium Glycinate | Certified by labdoor | 90 Capsules | ||||||
2 | Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate | ![]() | Gentle Magnesium for Heart, Energy, and Bone Health | 120mg | Magnesium Glycinate | Certified Gluten Free | 90 Capsules | ||||||
3 | Nature Made Nature Made|High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Capsules 200 mg | ![]() | High Absorption Magnesium for Relaxation and Overall Health | 200mg | Magnesium Glycinate | 60 Capsules | |||||||
4 | BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough | ![]() | Comprehensive Magnesium Blend for Optimal Health | 500mg | Magnesium Glycinate、Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Oxide、Magnesium Malate | Informed Sport, GMP-Certified | 60 Capsules | ||||||
5 | Life Extension Neuro-Mag® Magnesium L-Threonate | ![]() | Advanced Brain Support | 144mg | Magnesium L-Threonate | 90 Capsules | |||||||
6 | Nature’s Bounty Nature's Bounty|Magnesium | ![]() | Comprehensive Bone and Muscle Support with High-Potency Magnesium | 500mg | Magnesium Oxide | 200 Tablets | |||||||
7 | Live Conscious MagWell® | ![]() | Comprehensive Support for Bone, Immune, and Cardiovascular Health | 225mg | Magnesium Glycinate、Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Malate | 120 Capsules | |||||||
8 | Doctor’s Best High Absorption Magnesium, Lysinate Glycinate | ![]() | Superior Magnesium for Bone, Heart, and Sleep Support | 100mg | Magnesium Glycinate | 240 | |||||||
9 | Double Wood Supplements Magnesium L-Threonate (Magtein) Supplement | ![]() | Brain-Boosting Magnesium for Cognitive Health and Sleep | 2000mg | Magnesium L-Threonate | 100 Capsules | |||||||
10 | NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate Veg Capsules | ![]() | Essential Magnesium Citrate for Energy and Enzyme Function | 400mg | Magnesium Citrate | NPA A-rated GMP Certification | 120 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 300mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Malate、Magnesium Glycinate |
BioEmblem Triple Complex Magnesium offers a potent blend of three highly absorbable forms of magnesium — glycinate, malate, and citrate — providing 300 mg per serving. Magnesium is vital in supporting healthy nerve and muscle function, helping relieve muscle and leg discomfort at night while promoting brain health. Its high absorption rate ensures that your body gets the necessary magnesium without digestive discomfort.
This triple complex magnesium also supports heart health, energy production, and bone strength. Magnesium malate, in particular, aids in cellular energy production, while magnesium, in general, helps regulate essential nutrients like calcium and zinc, promoting healthy bones and strong bone density. Whether you’re looking for post-exercise muscle support or overall cardiovascular health, BioEmblem's third-party tested, vegan, non-GMO formula ensures you get pure, high-quality magnesium in every capsule, free from artificial ingredients or fillers.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | Certified by labdoor |
Unit Count | 90 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 120mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Glycinate |
Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate is a heart health supplement that supports essential bodily functions. It activates enzymes necessary for neuromuscular contractions and promotes optimal cardiac function. This easily absorbed form of magnesium also helps metabolize key nutrients like vitamins B6, C, and E, ensuring the body effectively utilizes them. It is ideal for individuals seeking a supplement that supports both heart health and nutrient metabolism.
Additionally, this magnesium glycinate supplement plays a critical role in energy production and bone support. It aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids while also helping to regulate the use of important minerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium. Designed for sensitive individuals, it is gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause loose stools than other magnesium forms.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | Certified Gluten Free |
Unit Count | 90 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 200mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Glycinate |
Nature Made High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Capsules provide a gentle, effective way to support nerve, bone, and heart health. Each serving delivers 200 mg of magnesium glycinate, a highly bioavailable and 100% chelated form of magnesium known for its easy absorption and soothing effects on the body.
Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate has a formulation designed for sensitive digestive systems. Free from artificial flavors and gluten, these capsules are a clean choice for those seeking a reliable magnesium supplement. As one of the top pharmacist-recommended vitamin and supplement brands, Nature Made ensures you get a trusted product to support your overall health. Take two capsules daily with a meal for optimal benefits.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 60 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 500mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Glycinate、Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Oxide、Magnesium Malate |
Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers delivers a complete magnesium complex, combining seven highly effective forms of magnesium — bisglycinate, malate, chelate, aspartate, orotate, taurate, and citrate. This unique formula provides the optimum dose of magnesium to support multiple bodily functions, including muscle relaxation, cognitive health, and energy production. Resupplying crucial magnesium levels helps reverse deficiency and supports the body's natural processes, helping you feel balanced and energized.
Magnesium Breakthrough capsules, designed for fast absorption, dissolve quickly and are absorbed rapidly to ensure maximum benefits. This formula also includes vitamin B6, which enhances magnesium absorption and contributes to overall wellness. It should be noted that this supplement has a dose of 500 mg of magnesium, which is above the currently set tolerable upper limit.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | Informed Sport, GMP-Certified |
Unit Count | 60 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 144mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium L-Threonate |
Neuro-Mag® Magnesium L-Threonate by Life Extension is designed for those looking to enhance memory, focus, and cognitive performance. This highly absorbable form of magnesium L-threonate supports brain cell communication and critical signaling pathways associated with learning and memory. Whether studying, working, or simply trying to stay sharp, this supplement helps maintain optimal brain function and focus by ensuring your brain cells stay well-connected.
Neuro-Mag® is an effective way to support cognitive wellness. Life Extension's commitment to quality means their magnesium L-threonate is sourced from the finest raw ingredients, ensuring non-GMO, gluten-free supplements made in the USA.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 90 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 500mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Oxide |
Nature's Bounty Magnesium oxide delivers 500 mg of this vital mineral per tablet, offering 119% of the daily recommended value to support your bone and muscle health. This dosage is over the currently set tolerable limit, so consider speaking with a medical professional before starting. Magnesium plays an essential role in bone mineralization, helping maintain strong bones while also supporting muscle contractions and nerve impulses. Whether you want to enhance your muscle function, improve energy metabolism, or assist in protein formation, this supplement is a comprehensive solution for your body's needs.
Free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and gluten, Nature’s Bounty Magnesium is designed for those who prioritize clean ingredients and dietary compatibility. With a focus on delivering unsurpassed quality and value, Nature's Bounty uses the latest advancements in nutritional science to ensure you get a potent and reliable magnesium supplement to enhance your overall health. Take it daily to experience the benefits of this essential mineral.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 200 Tablets |
Magnesium Dosage | 225mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Glycinate、Magnesium Citrate、Magnesium Malate |
MagWell® by Live Conscious is designed to bolster bone and muscle strength through its high-quality magnesium formula of glycinate, citrate, and malate. Magnesium plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and utilization, supporting the maintenance of healthy bones and enhancing bone strength. This supplement is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to combat magnesium deficiency.
In addition to 225 mg of magnesium, MagWell® includes a potent blend of vitamin D3 and zinc, known for their immune-boosting properties. The formula's antioxidant-rich ingredients also improve cardiovascular health, making it a well-rounded supplement for overall wellness. This supplement provides 120 capsules for a two-month supply.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 120 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 100mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Glycinate |
Doctor's Best High Absorption Magnesium, Lysinate Glycinate, offers a comprehensive approach to overall wellness by supporting bone density, promoting muscle relaxation, and enhancing cardiovascular health. It provides 200 mg of magnesium per serving. Ideal for those looking to optimize their magnesium intake, it’s formulated with the patented TRAACS (The Real Amino Acid Chelate System) to ensure faster and more effective absorption.
This "not buffered" magnesium supplement avoids using cheaper, less absorbable forms like magnesium oxide, providing a purer product focusing on quality and results. Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free, Doctor's Best offers a clean and trusted solution for anyone looking to enhance their magnesium intake for better sleep, bone strength, and heart health.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 240 |
Magnesium Dosage | 2000mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium L-Threonate |
Magnesium L-Threonate (Magtein) by Double Wood Supplements is backed by multiple clinical studies as a magnesium supplement that helps enhance memory, focus, and overall brain function. Thanks to the L-threonate chelating agent, its high bioavailability ensures superior absorption compared to other magnesium forms, delivering maximum benefits for mental clarity and brain health.
At 144 mg of elemental magnesium per 2,000 mg serving of the L-threonate compound, this dosage is at a safe level, being below the TUL.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | |
Unit Count | 100 Capsules |
Magnesium Dosage | 400mg |
---|---|
Magnesium Types | Magnesium Citrate |
NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate Veg Capsules are excellent for supporting energy production and overall metabolic health. Magnesium is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and bone mineralization. This form of magnesium, known for its high bioavailability, aids in synthesizing fatty acids and proteins and stabilizes glucose metabolism by acting as a cofactor for around 600 enzymes in the body.
At 400 mg of magnesium per serving, this dosage is slightly higher than the upper tolerable limit currently set. This supplement is manufactured in the USA and backed by NPA A-rated GMP certification. NOW Foods ensures rigorous quality control throughout the entire production process.
Zinc | |
---|---|
Vitamin B6 | |
Vitamin D | |
Organic | |
Third-Party Certification | NPA A-rated GMP Certification |
Unit Count | 120 Capsules |
Still not sure if magnesium supplements are right for you? With help from registered dietitian nutritionist Kathy Shattler, we compiled answers to some of the most common questions about magnesium supplements.
Magnesium supplements can be an effective remedy for constipation due to their ability to relax the muscles in the intestines and attract water into the bowel, making stools easier to pass. Many people use magnesium as a natural solution for occasional constipation, and it is available in various forms, such as magnesium citrate, oxide, and glycinate. By softening the stool and promoting bowel movements, magnesium may help relieve constipation symptoms in a gentle, non-habit-forming way.
Magnesium has been shown to positively impact systolic blood pressure in specific situations, such as hypertensive crises, and doses greater than 600 mg/day may help lower blood pressure in untreated hypertensive individuals. However, even lower doses of magnesium have been found to reduce cardiac risks in other areas unrelated to hypertension.
Magnesium supplements may help lower blood pressure, particularly for individuals with conditions like insulin resistance, prediabetes, or chronic diseases. Studies have shown that magnesium intake ranging from 500 mg to 1,000 mg daily may reduce blood pressure. This effect is likely due to magnesium’s ability to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, making it beneficial for those at risk of hypertension or cardiovascular issues.
No. 1: BioEmblem|Triple Complex Magnesium
No. 2: Pure Encapsulations|Magnesium Glycinate
No. 3: Nature Made|Nature Made|High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Capsules 200 mg
No. 4: BiOptimizers|Magnesium Breakthrough
No. 5: Life Extension|Neuro-Mag® Magnesium L-Threonate
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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