What is magnesium?

What is chelated magnesium?

Chelated magnesium is a type of magnesium supplement that's designed to be easier for your body to absorb. Essentially, in chelated magnesium, the magnesium is attached to another molecule (often an amino acid), which helps transport it more efficiently through your digestive system. The idea is that by attaching magnesium to something that your body absorbs well, you'll get more of the actual mineral into your bloodstream without it getting lost or broken down along the way.

Magnesium chelate can be particularly helpful for those who need to boost their levels of this vital mineral but might have trouble with other forms of supplements. Chelated magnesium aims to provide a smoother path for magnesium to enter and benefit the body, supporting everything from muscle function and heart health to bone strength.

What is magnesium glycinate?

Magnesium glycinate, sometimes referred to as magnesium biglycinate, is a form of magnesium where the mineral is bound to glycine, a non-essential amino acid. This bonding creates a compound known as chelate, which in the case of magnesium glycinate, is used in dietary supplements. The key benefit of chelated magnesium glycinate is its bioavailability, which means that it is easily absorbed into the bloodstream for the body to use.

Additionally, this form of magnesium is gentle on the stomach, potentially reducing the chances of digestive upset and making it a preferable choice for individuals with sensitive systems. Magnesium glycinate supplements are particularly favored for their ability to support nerve function, promote relaxation and better sleep, and support overall mental and physical well-being.

What is magnesium citrate?

Magnesium citrate is another popular form of magnesium supplement. In this compound, magnesium is bound to citric acid, a natural acid in citrus fruits. This bond creates a magnesium salt commonly used for its laxative properties and ability to enhance overall magnesium levels in the body. Magnesium citrate supplements are particularly well-known for their efficacy in promoting bowel movements. It draws water into the intestines, which may help stimulate bowel movements by softening stools.

In addition to its laxative effects, magnesium citrate is also well-absorbed by the body, making it a good choice for those looking to supplement their magnesium intake to support metabolic health, muscle function, and nerve function. Like other forms of magnesium, it plays critical roles in numerous bodily processes, including energy production as well as muscle and nerve function regulation. Overall, its absorbability and beneficial effects on bowel health make magnesium citrate a popular choice among various magnesium supplements.

What is the difference between magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate?

Magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate are both forms of magnesium supplements but have different uses and effects on the body. A magnesium citrate supplement may be used as a laxative due to its ability to attract water into the intestines but it could also cause gastrointestinal discomfort. In contrast, a magnesium glycinate supplement may have a gentler impact on the stomach while still promoting absorption, making it ideal for long-term supplementation. It is bound with glycine, an amino acid that enhances magnesium's bioavailability and supports mental and physical relaxation without laxative effects. Therefore, choosing between the two depends on your specific health needs—whether you require immediate bowel relief or want to improve overall magnesium levels and reduce stress without digestive upset.

Note: If you have a medical condition or take other medications, be sure to talk to your physician before adding a magnesium supplement to your routine.

At The Vitamin Shoppe, we offer a variety of magnesium products, including magnesium powder supplements, capsules, liquids, flavorful gummies, and more from all your favorite brands. Visit The Vitamin Shoppe to learn more or buy magnesium products online and get free shipping on qualifying orders. You may also be able to pick up your supplements at one of our store locations near you.