Magnesium Amino Acid vs. Magnesium Bisglycinate

Attribute	Magnesium Amino Acid	Magnesium Bisglycinate
Form	Chelated form of magnesium with amino acids	Chelated form of magnesium with glycine
Absorption	May have higher bioavailability due to amino acid chelation	May have higher bioavailability due to glycine chelation
Benefits	May support muscle function and energy production	May support relaxation and stress relief
Side Effects	May cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals	May be better tolerated by those with sensitive stomachs

Introduction

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation, and bone health. It is commonly found in many foods, but some people may need to supplement their magnesium intake to meet their daily requirements. Two popular forms of magnesium supplements are magnesium amino acid chelate and magnesium bisglycinate. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two forms of magnesium supplements to help you make an informed decision about which one may be best for you.

Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate

Magnesium amino acid chelate is a form of magnesium that is bound to amino acids. This chelated form of magnesium is believed to be more easily absorbed by the body compared to other forms of magnesium. The amino acids act as carriers for the magnesium, helping it to pass through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream more efficiently. This means that magnesium amino acid chelate may have higher bioavailability, meaning that a larger percentage of the magnesium is absorbed and utilized by the body.

One of the key benefits of magnesium amino acid chelate is that it is less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, which can sometimes occur with other forms of magnesium supplements. This makes it a good option for individuals who have sensitive stomachs or who have experienced digestive issues with other types of magnesium supplements. Additionally, magnesium amino acid chelate is often well-tolerated and may be less likely to cause laxative effects compared to other forms of magnesium.

Another advantage of magnesium amino acid chelate is that it may have a calming effect on the body and mind. Magnesium is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress, and some research suggests that magnesium amino acid chelate may be particularly effective in this regard. This makes it a popular choice for individuals who are looking to support their mental and emotional well-being in addition to their physical health.

However, one potential drawback of magnesium amino acid chelate is that it may be more expensive than other forms of magnesium supplements. The chelation process used to bind the magnesium to amino acids can be costly, which may result in a higher price tag for magnesium amino acid chelate supplements compared to other forms of magnesium. This is something to consider if you are on a tight budget or looking for a more affordable magnesium supplement option.

In summary, magnesium amino acid chelate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that is well-tolerated and may have calming effects on the body and mind. While it may be more expensive than other forms of magnesium supplements, its superior bioavailability and reduced risk of gastrointestinal side effects make it a popular choice for many individuals.

Magnesium Bisglycinate

Magnesium bisglycinate is another form of magnesium that is chelated with the amino acid glycine. Like magnesium amino acid chelate, magnesium bisglycinate is believed to have high bioavailability, meaning that a large percentage of the magnesium is absorbed and utilized by the body. The glycine in magnesium bisglycinate may help to enhance the absorption of magnesium and improve its effectiveness in the body.

One of the key benefits of magnesium bisglycinate is that it is less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects compared to other forms of magnesium supplements. The chelation of magnesium with glycine helps to protect the magnesium from binding with other compounds in the digestive tract that can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. This makes magnesium bisglycinate a good option for individuals who have sensitive stomachs or who have experienced digestive issues with other types of magnesium supplements.

Another advantage of magnesium bisglycinate is that it is well-tolerated and may be less likely to cause laxative effects compared to other forms of magnesium. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are prone to digestive discomfort or who are looking for a magnesium supplement that is gentle on the stomach. The gentle nature of magnesium bisglycinate makes it suitable for long-term use without the risk of developing tolerance or dependence.

However, one potential drawback of magnesium bisglycinate is that it may have a slightly lower magnesium content compared to other forms of magnesium supplements. This means that you may need to take a higher dose of magnesium bisglycinate to achieve the same benefits as other forms of magnesium. This can be a consideration for individuals who are looking to maximize their magnesium intake without having to take multiple capsules or tablets.

In summary, magnesium bisglycinate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that is well-tolerated and less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects. While it may have a slightly lower magnesium content compared to other forms of magnesium supplements, its gentle nature and effectiveness in the body make it a popular choice for individuals seeking a reliable and well-tolerated magnesium supplement.

Conclusion

Both magnesium amino acid chelate and magnesium bisglycinate are highly absorbable forms of magnesium that are well-tolerated and less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects compared to other forms of magnesium supplements. While magnesium amino acid chelate may have calming effects on the body and mind, magnesium bisglycinate may have a slightly lower magnesium content but is gentle on the stomach. Ultimately, the choice between magnesium amino acid chelate and magnesium bisglycinate will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to determine which form of magnesium supplement is best for you.