Why Magnesium Form Matters
Magnesium is one of the most commonly used food supplements in Europe.
It contributes to several normal physiological functions, including normal muscle function, normal functioning of the nervous system, normal energy-yielding metabolism, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, maintenance of normal bones and maintenance of normal teeth.
When comparing magnesium supplements, consumers may notice that products contain different forms of magnesium. Understanding these forms can help when evaluating different formulations.
Approved EU Health Claims For Magnesium
Magnesium contributes to:
- normal muscle function
- normal functioning of the nervous system
- normal energy-yielding metabolism
- reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- normal psychological function
- maintenance of normal bones
- maintenance of normal teeth
These claims are authorised under EU nutrition and health claims legislation.
What Are Different Magnesium Forms?
Magnesium used in food supplements is available in several different chemical forms.
These forms vary in their structure and are selected by manufacturers according to the intended formulation.
Common forms include:
Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium oxide is one of the most widely used magnesium forms in food supplements.
It is commonly found in tablets and capsules due to its high magnesium content by weight and its suitability for supplement manufacturing.
Magnesium Carbonate
Magnesium carbonate is another commonly used magnesium source and is frequently included in magnesium formulations.
Magnesium Bisglycinate
Magnesium bisglycinate is a chelated form in which magnesium is bound to the amino acid glycine.
Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium bound to citric acid and is widely used in food supplements.
Magnesium Malate
Magnesium malate combines magnesium with malic acid and is frequently included in multi-form magnesium products.
Magnesium Taurate
Magnesium taurate combines magnesium with taurine and is used in certain specialised magnesium formulations.
Magnesium Gluconate
Magnesium gluconate is another form commonly used within multi-form magnesium products.
What Is Chelated Magnesium?
Chelated magnesium refers to magnesium that is chemically bound to another molecule, such as an amino acid or organic acid.
Examples include:
- Magnesium Bisglycinate
- Magnesium Taurate
- Magnesium Citrate
- Magnesium Malate
Chelated forms are commonly used in food supplement formulations and are frequently included in multi-form magnesium products.
Why Do Some Products Use Multiple Forms?
Many magnesium supplements contain more than one magnesium form.
Multi-form formulations combine several magnesium sources within a single serving.
Manufacturers may choose this approach to create a broader magnesium profile within a product.
Examples of magnesium forms commonly combined in multi-form products include:
- Bisglycinate
- Citrate
- Malate
- Taurate
- Gluconate
Tenebra Magnesium Products
Tenebra currently offers two magnesium formulations.
Magnesium 4-Fold Complex
Serving: 1 Tablet Daily
Elemental Magnesium: 200 mg (53.4% NRV)
Forms Included
- Magnesium Bisglycinate – 160 mg
- Magnesium Citrate – 22.5 mg
- Magnesium Malate – 11.5 mg
- Magnesium Taurate – 6 mg
Suitable for individuals looking for a magnesium supplement containing four different magnesium forms.
Magnesium 5-Fold Complex + Vitamin B6
Serving: 2 Capsules Daily
Elemental Magnesium: 250 mg (66.7% NRV)
Vitamin B6: 1.4 mg (100% NRV)
Forms Included
- Magnesium Bisglycinate – 400 mg
- Magnesium Gluconate – 370.7 mg
- Magnesium L-Malate – 333.32 mg
- Magnesium Taurate – 200 mg
- Magnesium Citrate – 200 mg
Approved EU Health Claims For Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 contributes to:
- normal psychological function
- reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- normal energy-yielding metabolism
- normal functioning of the nervous system
How To Read A Magnesium Label
When comparing magnesium supplements, consider reviewing:
1. Magnesium Form
Which magnesium forms are listed in the ingredients?
Examples include:
- Oxide
- Carbonate
- Citrate
- Bisglycinate
- Malate
- Taurate
- Gluconate
2. Elemental Magnesium
Nutrition tables often provide the amount of elemental magnesium supplied per serving.
This figure can help consumers compare products.
3. Serving Size
Check how many tablets or capsules are required to obtain the declared magnesium content.
4. Additional Ingredients
Some magnesium products also contain vitamins or other nutrients.
For example, vitamin B6 is included in certain formulations.
5. Quality Information
Consumers may wish to review information relating to manufacturing standards, testing procedures and quality control systems.
Choosing A Magnesium Supplement
Magnesium supplements are available in a wide range of formats and formulations.
When comparing products, consumers may wish to consider:
- magnesium form
- elemental magnesium content
- serving size
- additional ingredients
- manufacturing standards
- testing and quality control information
Reviewing these factors can help support more informed purchasing decisions.
Important Information
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
All health claims relating to magnesium and vitamin B6 are authorised under Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006.
Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Always follow the recommended daily serving stated on the product label.