In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Bottom LineChoosing the Right OneOur SearchWe Also ConsideredCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

The Bottom Line

Choosing the Right One

Our Search

We Also Considered

Common Questions

Our Trusted Expertise

Photo:EatingWell / Dera Burreson

A selection of magnesium supplements we tried

EatingWell / Dera Burreson

Magnesium is a trace mineral that’sessential for good health. It’s involved in the normal functioning of many body systems, including cellular energy production, muscle contraction and relaxation and nerve and heart function. It also plays a role in bone health, mood, blood sugar regulation and sleep.

But here’s the surprising news: “Many Americans don’t get enough magnesium in their diets,” saysLauren Panoff, RD. “Magnesium is found in foods like beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, yogurt and leafy greens. But if someone doesn’t eat many of these, a supplement can be a convenient way to get most of your RDA (recommended dietary allowance) in a small serving.” The RDA for women is 310 to 320 milligrams a day and for men, it’s 400 to 420 mg daily.

Registered DietitianAshley Koffagrees. “As a practitioner for over 25 years, I have almost always seen that people are not getting in the RDA [for magnesium],” she says. Besides filling in gaps in diet, there’s evidence magnesium supplements may offer relief from headaches, constipation and stress, as well as support cognitive function and exercise performance.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewAlso Great:Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest Chewable:SALESmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula at Amazon$39$33Jump to ReviewBest Powder:Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder at Amazon$46Jump to ReviewBest for Travel:Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest for Cognitive Support:Pure Encapsulations CogniMag at Amazon$86Jump to ReviewBest for Constipation:SALENOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder at Amazon$15$10Jump to Review

Best Overall:Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewAlso Great:Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest Chewable:SALESmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula at Amazon$39$33Jump to ReviewBest Powder:Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder at Amazon$46Jump to ReviewBest for Travel:Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest for Cognitive Support:Pure Encapsulations CogniMag at Amazon$86Jump to ReviewBest for Constipation:SALENOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder at Amazon$15$10Jump to Review

Best Overall:Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate at Amazon$26Jump to Review

Best Overall:Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate at Amazon$26

Best Overall:

Also Great:Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium at Amazon$21Jump to Review

Also Great:Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium at Amazon$21

Also Great:

Best Budget:Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg at Amazon$9Jump to Review

Best Budget:Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg at Amazon$9

Best Budget:

Best Chewable:SALESmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula at Amazon$39$33Jump to Review

Best Chewable:SALESmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula at Amazon$39$33

Best Chewable:

SALE

Best Powder:Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder at Amazon$46Jump to Review

Best Powder:Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder at Amazon$46

Best Powder:

Best for Travel:Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets at Amazon$21Jump to Review

Best for Travel:Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets at Amazon$21

Best for Travel:

Best for Cognitive Support:Pure Encapsulations CogniMag at Amazon$86Jump to Review

Best for Cognitive Support:Pure Encapsulations CogniMag at Amazon$86

Best for Cognitive Support:

Best for Constipation:SALENOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder at Amazon$15$10Jump to Review

Best for Constipation:SALENOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder at Amazon$15$10

Best for Constipation:

Best OverallPure Encapsulations Magnesium GlycinatePHOTO: Amazon$26 at Amazon$45 at Target$26 at Walmart

Best OverallPure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate

Best Overall

Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate

PHOTO: Amazon

Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate

$26 at Amazon$45 at Target$26 at Walmart

Price:$26 |Type of magnesium:Glycinate |Form:Capsule |Magnesium per serving:120 mg (28% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Contains the glycinate form of magnesium, which is easy to absorb and usually well tolerated.

What to know:Each capsule contains 120 mg of magnesium, so some may need to take more than one.

A common side effect of taking a magnesium supplement is digestive upset. Some types of magnesium are gentler on digestion than others, including the magnesium glycinate found in this product from Pure Encapsulations. In this type of magnesium, the magnesium is bound to the amino acid glycine, which helps make it easier to absorb.

Researchers have found magnesium supplements may have a calming effect—making it a good choice to support anxietyand stress, and possibly help you unwind in preparation for a good night’s sleep.

PHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera Burreson

A person opening a bottle of Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate capsule over an open bottle

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate capsule with a glass of water

A person opening a bottle of Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate capsule over an open bottle

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate capsule with a glass of water

Also GreatIntegrative Therapeutics Tri-MagnesiumPHOTO: Amazon$21 at Amazon$21 at WalmartPrice:$21 |Type of magnesium:Citrate, Oxide and Malate |Form:Capsule |Magnesium per serving:300 mg (71% DV) |Independently Verified:YesWhat we like:Contains a blend of three forms of magnesium to cover more bases.What to know:Formulated with magnesium oxide, a form that isn’t well absorbed but can be useful for relieving constipation.Choosing a magnesium supplement that is made with more than one type of magnesium can enhance absorption and provide numerous benefits. Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium contains magnesium citrate, malate and oxide. Magnesium citrate is better absorbed than magnesium oxide, but the latter is best for supporting regular bowel movements. If you occasionally deal with constipation, a product that includes the oxide form may help. Both magnesium citrate and malate can be used toboost magnesium levels.One bottle contains 90 capsules, with each capsule containing 300 mg of magnesium. This product is free from gluten and other major allergens. Integrative Therapeutics has been making quality dietary supplements for over 35 years in an NSF-registered facility.PHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera Burreson

Also GreatIntegrative Therapeutics Tri-MagnesiumPHOTO: Amazon$21 at Amazon$21 at Walmart

Also GreatIntegrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium

Also Great

Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium

Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium

$21 at Amazon$21 at Walmart

Price:$21 |Type of magnesium:Citrate, Oxide and Malate |Form:Capsule |Magnesium per serving:300 mg (71% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Contains a blend of three forms of magnesium to cover more bases.

What to know:Formulated with magnesium oxide, a form that isn’t well absorbed but can be useful for relieving constipation.

Choosing a magnesium supplement that is made with more than one type of magnesium can enhance absorption and provide numerous benefits. Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium contains magnesium citrate, malate and oxide. Magnesium citrate is better absorbed than magnesium oxide, but the latter is best for supporting regular bowel movements. If you occasionally deal with constipation, a product that includes the oxide form may help. Both magnesium citrate and malate can be used toboost magnesium levels.

One bottle contains 90 capsules, with each capsule containing 300 mg of magnesium. This product is free from gluten and other major allergens. Integrative Therapeutics has been making quality dietary supplements for over 35 years in an NSF-registered facility.

A person opening a bottle of Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsules

A person holding an Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsule over the open bottle

A person holding an Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsule and a glass of water

A person opening a bottle of Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsules

A person holding an Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsule over the open bottle

A person holding an Integrative Therapeutics Tri-Magnesium capsule and a glass of water

Best BudgetLife Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mgPHOTO: Amazon$9 at Amazon$14 at WalmartView on IHerbPrice:$10 |Type of magnesium:Citrate |Form:Capsule |Magnesium per serving:100 mg (24% DV) |Independently Verified:YesWhat we like:Contains 100 mg of magnesium per capsule, which is good for starting with a lower dose.What to know:The lower dose of magnesium may not be optimal for those with higher needs.Life Extension’s Magnesium Citrate capsules are worth a look if you want to try taking magnesium without spending a ton. A bottle costs less than $10 and contains 100 capsules and each capsule contains 100 mg of magnesium citrate. Many other magnesium supplements contain double or triple this amount, which makes this product a good lower-dose option if you’re just starting out.Life Extension manufactures its products at an NSF-registered facility. The brand is committed to independent testing for ingredient quality. This product is also non-GMO verified, vegetarian and gluten-free.PHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera Burreson

Best BudgetLife Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mgPHOTO: Amazon$9 at Amazon$14 at WalmartView on IHerb

Best BudgetLife Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg

Best Budget

Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg

Life Extension Magnesium Citrate 100mg

$9 at Amazon$14 at WalmartView on IHerb

Price:$10 |Type of magnesium:Citrate |Form:Capsule |Magnesium per serving:100 mg (24% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Contains 100 mg of magnesium per capsule, which is good for starting with a lower dose.

What to know:The lower dose of magnesium may not be optimal for those with higher needs.

Life Extension’s Magnesium Citrate capsules are worth a look if you want to try taking magnesium without spending a ton. A bottle costs less than $10 and contains 100 capsules and each capsule contains 100 mg of magnesium citrate. Many other magnesium supplements contain double or triple this amount, which makes this product a good lower-dose option if you’re just starting out.

Life Extension manufactures its products at an NSF-registered facility. The brand is committed to independent testing for ingredient quality. This product is also non-GMO verified, vegetarian and gluten-free.

A person opening a bottle of Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsules

A person holding a Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsule over the open bottle

A person holding a Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsule and a glass of water

A person opening a bottle of Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsules

A person holding a Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsule over the open bottle

A person holding a Life Extension Magnesium Citrate capsule and a glass of water

Best ChewableSmartyPants Adult Mineral FormulaPHOTO: Amazon$39$33 at Amazon$33 at WalmartView on IHerb

Best ChewableSmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula

Best Chewable

SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula

SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula

$39$33 at Amazon$33 at WalmartView on IHerb

Price:$19 |Type of magnesium:Citrate |Form:Chewable |Magnesium per serving:250 mg (60% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Soft chews are a good alternative to capsules and powders.

What to know:Not strictly a magnesium supplement, as it contains vitamins C, D and E, as well as other minerals. One chew also contains 3 grams added sugars.

If capsules and powders aren’t for you, you’ll appreciate the easy-to-chew texture of SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula. Each bottle contains a 1-month supply of individually wrapped soft chews, making it easy to take what you need wherever you go. Each serving delivers 250 mg of magnesium citrate.

A person opening a bottle of SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chews

A person holding a SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chew over the open bottle

A person holding a SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chew and a glass of water

A person opening a bottle of SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chews

A person holding a SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chew over the open bottle

A person holding a SmartyPants Adult Mineral Formula Chew and a glass of water

Best PowderThorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate PowderPHOTO: Walmart$46 at Amazon$48 at Target$48 at Walmart

Best PowderThorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

Best Powder

Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

PHOTO: Walmart

Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

$46 at Amazon$48 at Target$48 at Walmart

Price:$48 |Type of magnesium:Bisglycinate |Form:Powder |Magnesium per serving:200 mg (48% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Has been NSF Certified for Sport (a rigorous independent verification organization), making it a great option for athletes.

What to know:Costs more than options from other reputable brands.

This product contains a highly absorbable form of magnesium similar to magnesium glycinate and is easy to use—just mix one scoop into a glass of water. It’s lightly sweetened with monk fruit concentrate so is free from added sugar, as well as gluten and other allergens.

A person opening a container of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

A person adding a scoop of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder to a glass of water

A person scooping a serving of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

A person opening a container of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

A person adding a scoop of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder to a glass of water

A person scooping a serving of Thorne Research Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder

Best for TravelNatural Vitality Calm Drink Mix PacketsPHOTO: Amazon$21 at Amazon$25 at TargetPrice:$24 |Type of magnesium:Citrate |Form:Powder |Magnesium per serving:235 mg (56% DV) |Independently Verified:NoWhat we like:Single-serving packets make it easy to take on the go.What to know:At $1 per serving, these are more expensive than other supplements.You may have noticed tubs of Natural Vitality’s Calm magnesium powders in grocery stores and drugstores. It’s a popular choice because it mixes easily into water, comes in several tasty flavors and adds fun fizz similar to drinking your favorite seltzer. The same magnesium citrate powder is also available in single-serve packets that take up little space in a purse, backpack or suitcase.Whether you’re traveling to the office or on your next big adventure, these little packets are easier to pack than bottles of capsules or tubs of powders.  Each box contains 30 packets and each packet provides you with 235 mg of magnesium. Calm products are naturally flavored with stevia, a plant-based sweetener and are non-GMO verified.PHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera Burreson

Best for TravelNatural Vitality Calm Drink Mix PacketsPHOTO: Amazon$21 at Amazon$25 at Target

Best for TravelNatural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets

Best for Travel

Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets

Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packets

$21 at Amazon$25 at Target

Price:$24 |Type of magnesium:Citrate |Form:Powder |Magnesium per serving:235 mg (56% DV) |Independently Verified:No

What we like:Single-serving packets make it easy to take on the go.

What to know:At $1 per serving, these are more expensive than other supplements.

You may have noticed tubs of Natural Vitality’s Calm magnesium powders in grocery stores and drugstores. It’s a popular choice because it mixes easily into water, comes in several tasty flavors and adds fun fizz similar to drinking your favorite seltzer. The same magnesium citrate powder is also available in single-serve packets that take up little space in a purse, backpack or suitcase.

Whether you’re traveling to the office or on your next big adventure, these little packets are easier to pack than bottles of capsules or tubs of powders.  Each box contains 30 packets and each packet provides you with 235 mg of magnesium. Calm products are naturally flavored with stevia, a plant-based sweetener and are non-GMO verified.

A person removing a packet of Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix from the box

A person opening a packet of Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix

A person adding a Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packet to a glass of water

A person removing a packet of Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix from the box

A person opening a packet of Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix

A person adding a Natural Vitality Calm Drink Mix Packet to a glass of water

Best for Cognitive SupportPure Encapsulations CogniMagPHOTO: Amazon$86 at Amazon$86 at WalmartPrice:$86 |Type of magnesium:Threonate |Form:Capsules |Magnesium per serving:72 mg (17%) |Independently Verified:YesWhat we like:Formulated with magnesium-l-threonate, a type of magnesium linked to brain and neurological benefits.What to know:Pricier than other magnesium threonate supplements, but a bottle contains 60 servings versus others that contain a 1-month supply.The brain and nervous system rely on adequate magnesium to function optimally. If you’re looking for a magnesium supplement to support cognition, research suggests choosing one that includes magnesium threonate. A 2019 animal study found this type of magnesium increases magnesium levels in the brain more than other types.Pure Encapsulations CogniMag pairs magnesium threonate with PhytoMemory, a proprietary blend of fruit and vegetable polyphenols from wild blueberries, strawberries and spinach. Research has shown both magnesium and plant polyphenols can help support brain health, as well as cognitive functions like learning and memory.Each bottle contains a 2-month supply of capsules. Each serving has 72 mg of magnesium, which is the least of any magnesium supplement on this list.PHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera BurresonPHOTO: EatingWell / Dera Burreson

Best for Cognitive SupportPure Encapsulations CogniMagPHOTO: Amazon$86 at Amazon$86 at Walmart

Best for Cognitive SupportPure Encapsulations CogniMag

Best for Cognitive Support

Pure Encapsulations CogniMag

Pure Encapsulations CogniMag

$86 at Amazon$86 at Walmart

Price:$86 |Type of magnesium:Threonate |Form:Capsules |Magnesium per serving:72 mg (17%) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Formulated with magnesium-l-threonate, a type of magnesium linked to brain and neurological benefits.

What to know:Pricier than other magnesium threonate supplements, but a bottle contains 60 servings versus others that contain a 1-month supply.

The brain and nervous system rely on adequate magnesium to function optimally. If you’re looking for a magnesium supplement to support cognition, research suggests choosing one that includes magnesium threonate. A 2019 animal study found this type of magnesium increases magnesium levels in the brain more than other types.

Pure Encapsulations CogniMag pairs magnesium threonate with PhytoMemory, a proprietary blend of fruit and vegetable polyphenols from wild blueberries, strawberries and spinach. Research has shown both magnesium and plant polyphenols can help support brain health, as well as cognitive functions like learning and memory.

Each bottle contains a 2-month supply of capsules. Each serving has 72 mg of magnesium, which is the least of any magnesium supplement on this list.

A person opening a bottle of Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsules

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsule over the open bottle

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsule and a glass of water

A person opening a bottle of Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsules

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsule over the open bottle

A person holding a Pure Encapsulations CogniMag capsule and a glass of water

Best for ConstipationNOW Magnesium Oxide Pure PowderPHOTO: Walmart$15$10 at Amazon$15 at Walmart$10 at IHerb

Best for ConstipationNOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

Best for Constipation

NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

$15$10 at Amazon$15 at Walmart$10 at IHerb

Price:$10 |Type of magnesium:Oxide |Form:Powder |Magnesium per serving:290 mg (69% DV) |Independently Verified:Yes

What we like:Contains only one ingredient: powdered magnesium oxide.

What to know:This form of magnesium isn’t ideal for raising your body’s dietary magnesium levels.

Studies have found magnesium oxide is the most poorly absorbed form of supplemental magnesium. While we don’t recommend it for boosting magnesium levels, it’s a good choice for dealing withoccasional constipationbecause it moves through your system (i.e. isn’t absorbed). Some people even report relief from heartburn with this type of magnesium.

A person opening a container of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

A person adding a scoop of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder to a glass of water

A person holding a scoop of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

A person opening a container of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

A person adding a scoop of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder to a glass of water

A person holding a scoop of NOW Magnesium Oxide Pure Powder

Choosing a Magnesium Supplement

There are several things to consider before settling on the right magnesium supplement for your needs. Here’s what to keep in mind while shopping.

Consider the type of magnesium and its intended use

The first thing to take note of is the type of magnesium a magnesium supplement contains. You can find this information on the Supplement Facts label.

Supplemental magnesium comes in several types, called magnesium salts. Some types of magnesium are better suited for certain uses, so choosing the right type of magnesium for your needs is essential to get the benefits you’re looking for. Also, some types of magnesium are better absorbed than others, which may make some supplements more effective than others.

Here are some of the forms of magnesium you may find in oral supplements:

Magnesium supplements can contain one or more types of magnesium. For full body support, look for a magnesium supplement that contains a well-absorbed form of magnesium or a blend of several types of magnesium.

Some magnesium supplements combine magnesium with other ingredients to benefit specific concerns, like constipation or leg cramps, so always double check the Supplement Facts label.

Form of the supplement

Magnesium supplements are available as capsules, chewable tablets, gummies, powders and liquids. Magnesium powders are typically absorbed faster than capsules, which may be important if you’re using magnesium to help youfall asleepor relieve a headache.

The best supplement form for you depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. For example, if you don’t like swallowing pills, a powder or drinkable supplement may be preferable.

Look for independent verification

Independent verification is a voluntary, out-of-pocket expense for manufacturers of dietary supplements, but it helps ensure the purity, safety and quality of a product. Independent verification guarantees that a supplement contains the ingredients it says it does and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants.

Ingredients

It’s always a good idea to read the ingredient list before purchasing a supplement. Many individuals have dietary preferences and/or restrictions and the ingredient list will inform you whether a supplement is made with ingredients that are appropriate for your needs.

You should know that some forms of magnesium supplements, particularly gummies, powders and liquids, can contain added sugar. If you prefer keeping added sugar intake to a minimum, you’ll likely want to avoid gummy supplements and double check the Supplement Facts label for how much added sugar is in each serving of a supplement.

Some supplements also contain thickeners, preservatives, coloring and/or flavoring. Colors and flavors added to supplements can be artificial or natural, so again, always double-check the ingredients label to make sure a product fits your dietary preferences.

If you have food sensitivities or allergies, other ingredients to watch for are gluten, soy and other major food allergens. The ingredient list will disclose the presence of any allergens or potential cross-contamination from manufacturing.

If you’re plant-based, you’ll want to look for a vegetarian or vegan supplement. Likewise, if you prefer to shop organic or non-GMO (genetically modified organisms), you’ll want to look for a magnesium supplement that bears a certified organic seal and/or Non-GMO Project Verified.

Our Search for the Best Magnesium Supplements

We also considered several supplement forms, including capsules, powders and chewables. Finally, we interviewed registered dietitians for their best advice on taking magnesium and their go-to magnesium supplement picks.

Garden of Life Magnesium Gummies with Pre & Probiotics($15 at Amazon):If you’re a fan of gummy supplements, this is a great choice. Unlike many gummy supplements, these contain zero g of added sugar. Each gummy contains 100 mg of magnesium citrate (24% DV) and 250 million CFU of probiotics to support digestive health. This product is also certified vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified and bears an independent verification seal from NSF.

Nature Made Magnesium Complex with D3 and Zinc($17 at Amazon):This capsule supplement contains four well-known forms of magnesium: citrate, glycinate, malate and oxide, making it a good choice to support full body wellness. Each serving contains 230 mg of magnesium (55% DV), as well as vitamin D3 and zinc to support the immune system. If you already take other supplements that contain D3 and/or zinc, this may be redundant. Nature Made is an affordable and trusted brand. While many of their products bear the NSF testing seal, their line of magnesium supplements do not.

Should you take a magnesium supplement every day?

“It depends,” says Koff. “Your body does store magnesium, so you could take it every few days and some days rely on just food. But if you are experiencing symptoms of insufficiency, then you would want to take it daily to address those.”

If you’re taking a magnesium supplement to improve regularity, you might not need to take it every day if you start having daily bowel movements. The same goes for headaches and sore muscles: Perhaps you want to take magnesium when you feelan occasional headachecoming on or only on days you work out to support exercise recovery.

If you experience side effects from taking magnesium, such as an upset stomach or diarrhea, you may want to cut back on how often you’re taking magnesium. A health care provider can assist you in determining how much magnesium to take and when to take it.

When is the best time of day to take a magnesium supplement?

The time of day you take a magnesium supplement may depend on the reason you’re taking it. For example, if you’re taking magnesium to help you relax and get a better night’s sleep, you’ll want to take your supplement an hour or two before bedtime.

Other than for enhancing sleep, you can take a magnesium supplement at any time of day that works best for you. Sometimes pairing a supplement with a daily habit, like brewing a pot of coffee or brushing your teeth, can help you remember to take it.

“The most important part of taking a magnesium supplement is that it’s done consistently,” says Panoff. “Whether you take it morning, afternoon or evening, establishing a routine will have the most long-term benefit.”

What are the benefits of magnesium supplements?

Magnesium supplements can support gaps in dietary intake. “The best place to get any micronutrient, including magnesium, is through whole food sources,” says Panoff. “If you’re unable to meet your needs through diet alone, a magnesium supplement can help.”

Magnesium supplements can support full body wellness, including the health of your heart, brain, muscles and bones. Some studies have also found magnesium supplements can relieve constipation, enhance sleep quality, boost mood and promote muscle relaxation, which can help ease everyday tension, workout soreness and even uncomfortable menstrual cramping.

How much magnesium is safe to take?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets Daily Values (DV) so consumers can compare the nutrient contents of foods and dietary supplements within the context of a total diet. The DV for magnesium is 420 mg per day for adults and kids over the age of 4 years.

The Institute of Medicine has set a Tolerable Upper Intake Level for magnesium supplements. This amount is the maximum intake of a nutrient that is unlikely to cause adverse effects. The Tolerable Upper Limit only applies to magnesium you take from supplements, not the magnesium found in foods. For magnesium, the upper limit has been set at 350 mg per day for all individuals over 9 years of age.

Based on the above information, supplements that deliver 100 to 350 mg of magnesium is a good starting point. When choosing a dosage, you should also consider whether any other supplements you take contain magnesium. Taking multiple magnesium-containing supplements could put you above the Tolerable Upper Intake Level.

What are the side effects of magnesium supplements?

When taken as directed, magnesium supplements shouldn’t present serious problems for most individuals. However, if you’re getting too much magnesium from supplements, you may experience side effects—the most common being stomach cramps, nausea and/or diarrhea.

If you’ve experienced digestive upset after taking magnesium, you may want to pair your supplement with a meal or snack. Taking magnesium with food can help minimize digestive upset.

Who should not take a magnesium supplement?

While magnesium supplements are generally safe for most healthy adults, there are some instances where taking them may be contraindicated.

Magnesium supplements may not be appropriate for individuals diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, digestive disorders and/or kidney disease. A health care provider can determine if a magnesium supplement is safe and appropriate for you.

Magnesium can interfere with some prescription medications, including antibiotics and some medications for the heart. If you’re currently prescribed medicine, it’s best to consult your health care provider before adding a magnesium supplement to the mix.

Sharon Lehman, RD, is a content creator, seasoned recipe developer and avid home cook. She’s been writing about food, nutrition and health for over 6 years. To write this article, Lehman interviewed two additional dietitians:

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SourcesEatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L.The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review.Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. doi: 10.3390/nu9050429Shen Y, Dai L, Tian H, Xu R, Li F, Li Z, Zhou J, Wang L, Dong J, Sun L.Treatment of magnesium-L-threonate elevates the magnesium level in the cerebrospinal fluid and attenuates motor deficits and dopamine neuron loss in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2019;15:3143-3153. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S230688

Sources

EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L.The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review.Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. doi: 10.3390/nu9050429Shen Y, Dai L, Tian H, Xu R, Li F, Li Z, Zhou J, Wang L, Dong J, Sun L.Treatment of magnesium-L-threonate elevates the magnesium level in the cerebrospinal fluid and attenuates motor deficits and dopamine neuron loss in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2019;15:3143-3153. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S230688

EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L.The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review.Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. doi: 10.3390/nu9050429Shen Y, Dai L, Tian H, Xu R, Li F, Li Z, Zhou J, Wang L, Dong J, Sun L.Treatment of magnesium-L-threonate elevates the magnesium level in the cerebrospinal fluid and attenuates motor deficits and dopamine neuron loss in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2019;15:3143-3153. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S230688

Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L.The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review.Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. doi: 10.3390/nu9050429

Shen Y, Dai L, Tian H, Xu R, Li F, Li Z, Zhou J, Wang L, Dong J, Sun L.Treatment of magnesium-L-threonate elevates the magnesium level in the cerebrospinal fluid and attenuates motor deficits and dopamine neuron loss in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2019;15:3143-3153. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S230688