Magnesium glycinate is a highly-absorbable form of magnesium, made by combining magnesium with glycine (an amino acid).
At MAGSUPPS, we believe in harnessing the synergistic benefits of multiple types of highly bioavailable magnesium for maximum benefits.
Browse our range of magnesium supplements below, all featuring magnesium glycinate as a key ingredient, and experience the benefits this essential mineral can have on your health.
Magnesium Glycinate is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium that is known for its gentle effect on the digestive system, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive stomachs.
Additionally, glycine, the amino acid bound to magnesium in this form, is often taken as a sleep aid and for its calming properties.
As per EFSA-approved health claims, magnesium contributes too:
By incorporating magnesium glycinate into your daily supplement regimen, you can experience the benefits of this highly bioavailable and gentle form of magnesium while simultaneously supporting the many crucial functions it serves in your body.
All our supplements are manufactured right here in the UK in a state-of-the-art Oxford facility that meets some of the strictest quality and safety standards in the world.
Magnesium glycinate is a supplement made up of magnesium (a mineral) and glycine (an amino acid), two substances that are vital for good health. There is one molecule of magnesium attached to 2 molecules of glycine, hence it is commonly called magnesium bisglycinate (the proper term).
Magnesium is one of 21 essential minerals your body needs to function. It’s critical for bone health, energy production, muscle health and psychological function, to name just a few of its jobs. It’s also known as an electrolyte because of its important role in your body’s “electrical circuit”.
Glycine is an amino acid that your body uses to make proteins. These are used for building and repairing tissues, and for creating substances like hormones and enzymes. Glycine in particular plays a role in healthy joint function and digestion, and acts as an important neurotransmitter in your nervous system making it a key amino acid for brain health and function. It’s also commonly used as a natural sleep aid due to it's calming properties.
The recommended magnesium dosage and intake changes depending on your age and sex. The table below shows the adequate intake (AI) and recommended dietary allowance (RDA) from the National Institute of Health.
| Age | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Birth to 6 months | 30 mg* | 30 mg* |
| 7–12 months | 75 mg* | 75 mg* |
| 1–3 years | 80 mg | 80 mg |
| 4–8 years | 130 mg | 130 mg |
| 9–13 years | 240 mg | 240 mg |
| 14–18 years | 410 mg | 360 mg |
| 19–30 years | 400 mg | 310 mg |
| 31–50 years | 420 mg | 320 mg |
| 51+ years | 420 mg | 320 mg |
*Adequate Intake (AI)
Non-buffered magnesium glycinate refers to a pure form of magnesium glycinate without any additional magnesium compounds. This pure form ensures maximum bioavailability and optimal benefits for the user.
It is very common practise for brands to use a buffered magnesium glycinate ingredient which has been diluted with magnesium oxide, so a large % of the elemental magnesium from this ingredient will come from the magnesium oxide.
Magnesium glycinate chelate is another term for magnesium glycinate, highlighting the chelation process by which magnesium and glycine are chemically bonded together.
Magnesium glycinate and bisglycinate are interchangeable terms referring to the same compound. Both names highlight the chelation of magnesium with two molecules of the amino acid glycine.
Magnesium glycinate is a chelated form of magnesium known for its high bioavailability and gentle effect on the digestive system. Magnesium citrate is a magnesium salt of citric acid that is easily absorbed and also known for it's high bioavailability but at high dosages may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.
The time it takes for magnesium glycinate to work may vary between individuals. However, some users may experience noticeable benefits within a few hours to a few days after taking the supplement.
Magnesium glycinate may indirectly support sleep, as the amino acid glycine is known for its calming properties. Magnesium itself also plays a role in normal nervous system function, which can contribute to relaxation and better sleep.
It is generally recommended to take magnesium glycinate with a meal to enhance absorption. Some users prefer taking it in the evening due to its potential calming effects that may promote better sleep.
Magnesium glycinate is less likely to cause diarrhea compared to other forms of magnesium supplements, as it is gentle on the digestive system and more easily absorbed by the body. However, individual reactions may vary, and high doses may still cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
We know that magnesium glycinate doesn’t cause the same gastrointestinal side effects as some other magnesium supplements, but are there any other side effects you should be aware of?
Magnesium glycinate is generally safe, but it may not be suitable for people with kidney disease or other renal problems. That’s because your kidneys may not be able to get rid of excess magnesium through your urine, so you may end up with hypermagnesemia (too much magnesium) if you take magnesium supplements.
Magnesium glycinate may also react with certain medications and change how they work in the body. The medications most commonly affected are antibiotics, heart medications, acid reflux medications, and bisphosphonates (for osteoporosis).
If you have a health condition or you’re taking medications, it’s best to check with your doctor first to make sure magnesium glycinate supplements are safe for you.
