by Melissa Chichester
We already know you’re familiar with mighty magnesium, an essential major mineral our bodies need to support bone health and bone mineralization.* But that isn’t all magnesium can do. By playing a role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, magnesium is one of the nutrients our body needs the most, but did you know that there are different types of magnesium?
While there are many different types of magnesium, we have highlighted a few common types that can be found in dietary supplements with some surprising benefits!
Magnesium aspartate, the magnesium salt of aspartic acid, is a chelated mineral. Chelation is a binding process that combines inorganic minerals, like magnesium, with organic compounds, like amino acids – in this case, aspartic acid. All organic bound magnesium salts, such as magnesium citrate, gluconate, orotate, or aspartate are recommended because of their high bioavailability (Grober, 2015). Interestingly aspartic acid was discovered after being isolated from asparagus juice in the early 1800s. Aspartate is considered a non-essential amino acid.
Magnesium oxide supports energy metabolism and is critical for enzyme function.* Magnesium oxide is derived from ancient oceanic deposits and is a source of elemental magnesium. It is also one of the most common forms used in supplements.
This is likely one of the most celebrated forms of magnesium out there. In addition to being one of the most common forms of magnesium, it is also one of the most studied forms. Compared to other forms, magnesium citrate is the preferred form for bioavailability and absorption (Walker, 2003), which is important for one of magnesium’s responsibilities in the body: regulating calcium transport between cells.* Magnesium citrate (at least 300 mg per day) also supports a calm, relaxed mood and helps with occasional anxiety relief.* In addition, magnesium citrate helps with occasional stress (also at least 300 mg per day).*
Are you missing out on magnesium? Check out our magnesium supplements here.
