Dietary supplements containing magnesium are among the best-selling supplements on the Norwegian market. These supplements contain different forms of magnesium. The different forms vary in price, the amounts added, how effectively they are absorbed and utilized by the body, and how gentle they are on the stomach and digestion.
Magnesium is important for a number of processes and functions in our body, including energy metabolism, protein synthesis, blood sugar control, digestion, blood pressure, the immune system, nerve signals, sleep, muscle function and much more. Yes, in fact, most things in your body, as magnesium is also a co-factor in more than 300 enzymatic reactions that are constantly going on in the body (1-3). It is therefore important to choose a magnesium supplement with raw materials and function best suited to your needs.
The most common forms of magnesium in supplements are described below:
Magnesium bisglysinate (chelate). Sometimes also called magnesium glycinate and is chelated or chelated (bound) with the amino acid glycine. Provides very good absorption and bioavailability in the body, does not break down in digestion and is therefore gentle on the stomach. This form of magnesium is classified as organic and often has a higher price than other inorganic forms of magnesium. Some suppliers have better documentation of this form of chelation than others, such as Albion Minerals, which is used in SHIFT™ Magnesium and SHIFT™ Magnesium Powder.
Read more about the bisglysinates used in the SHIFT™ range here
Magnesium malate is magnesium bound to malic acid (malic acid). It has been shown to have good absorption and bioavailability in the body, and is gentle on the stomach. This form of magnesium is classified as organic, and often has a higher price than other inorganic forms of magnesium. Studies have shown positive effects on, among other things, muscles, and reduction of tiredness and fatigue. This form of magnesium is found in SHIFT™ Magnesium.
Magnesium in ionic form. Here, the magnesium is not bound to an amino acid or salt, but is in ionic form, which means that the mineral is easily absorbed and bioavailable to the body. It is also gentle on the stomach. The source of magnesium in ionic form is often concentrated salt water. Concentrated desert lake water in SHIFT™ Magnesium and SHIFT™ Magnesium Drops is an example of this form of magnesium.
Magnesium chloride. Consists of magnesium and chloride. Most often used on the skin, is intended to be fast-acting and may be an alternative for those with digestive problems. When used on the skin, the product is classified as a cosmetic and not a dietary supplement. The source of magnesium chloride is often seawater.
This form of magnesium is found in SHIFT™ MagnesiumOil
Magnesium oxide. Consists of magnesium and oxygen ions. This form is not bound to an amino acid and the uptake/bioavailability is described as low (approx. 4%) for this form, despite a high magnesium content. This form of magnesium is classified as inorganic and often has a low price compared to organic and more bioavailable magnesium compounds. Magnesium oxide affects digestion and is laxative, and can therefore cause stomach upset.
Magnesium citrate. Is combined magnesium and citric acid. Has a sour taste. Contains up to 16% magnesium, but absorption is often lower than for chelated magnesium compounds. Magnesium citrate affects digestion and is laxative, but gentler on the stomach than magnesium oxide.
Magnesium carbonate. Most commonly used as an acid suppressant and is less common in supplements. May contain 29-45% magnesium.
Magnesium taurate. Chelated with the amino acid taurine. Taurine can have a calming effect and positive effects on the heart and vessels. The bioavailability of magnesium taurate is described as good. A newer form of magnesium and currently rarely used in dietary supplements.
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