Magnesium glycinate is a form of the essential mineral magnesium, chelated with the amino acid glycine. This chelation process means magnesium is bound to glycine molecules, which is thought to enhance its absorption and bioavailability compared to other forms of magnesium. Magnesium itself is a crucial mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, playing a fundamental role in processes ranging from energy production and muscle function to nerve transmission and protein synthesis. Glycine is an amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter and is involved in various metabolic pathways. The combination of magnesium with glycine is often chosen for its purported gentleness on the digestive system and its potential to promote relaxation and improve sleep.
Magnesium deficiency is common, with estimates suggesting a significant portion of the population may not consume adequate amounts through diet. Symptoms of deficiency can include muscle cramps, fatigue, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Supplementation with magnesium glycinate aims to address these deficiencies and support overall health.
Magnesium glycinate is available as an over-the-counter supplement, typically in capsule, tablet, or powder form. It is generally recognized as safe when taken within recommended dosages. As a supplement, it is not regulated by the FDA in the same way as pharmaceuticals, so consumers should look for reputable brands. (NIH ODS)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Compound-pair rule
Synergy
Magnesium helps activate vitamin D; adequate magnesium supports its metabolism.
Fine to pair.
Compound-pair rule
Note
Very large simultaneous doses can compete for absorption.
If both high-dose, splitting them can help.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Divalent cations chelate levothyroxine in the gut and reduce absorption by up to 30%.
Take levothyroxine on empty stomach; separate mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Divalent cations chelate levothyroxine in the gut and reduce absorption by up to 30%.
Take levothyroxine on empty stomach; separate mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Minerals chelate T3 and reduce absorption.
Separate liothyronine and mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Divalent cations chelate levothyroxine in the gut and reduce absorption by up to 30%.
Take levothyroxine on empty stomach; separate mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Divalent cations chelate levothyroxine in the gut and reduce absorption by up to 30%.
Take levothyroxine on empty stomach; separate mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Minerals chelate T3 and reduce absorption.
Separate liothyronine and mineral supplements by at least 4 hours.
Suggested separation: 4 h
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "Mayo Clinic", "EMA SmPC (Summary of Product Characteristics for magnesium sulfate - general magnesium info)", "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews", "DrugBank"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the mineral category or studied for the same goals.