The 10 Best Magnesium Supplements of 2024, According to a Registered Dietitian

Can you imagine being involved in over 300 critical roles across multiple departments around the clock? *Google searches “the strongest pre-workout”…*

Magnesium, an essential mineral, helps carry out 300+ processes throughout the entire body: it helps your muscles contract, your heart maintain a normal rhythm, and so much more. Despite this, over half of the U.S. population is estimated not to get enough magnesium in their diets, according to a 2017 review¹. 

At GGR, we want you to fully experience all that magnesium can do from head-to-toe. So, our expert nutrition team rounded up and reviewed the best magnesium supplement options, thoroughly testing and scoring 14 different options. We’ve chosen our top picks to help you reclaim those 300+ processes magnesium helps with!

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Best Magnesium Supplement 

• Best Overall Magnesium Supplement: Transparent Labs Magnesium Bisglycinate
• Best Magnesium Supplement for Athletes: Legion Sucrosomial Magnesium
• Best High-Dose Magnesium Supplement: LifeForce Magnesium
• Best Magnesium Supplement for Brain Health: Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate
• Best Budget Magnesium Supplement: Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate
• Best Magnesium Supplement for Constipation: NOW Magnesium Citrate
• Best Magnesium for Migraines: Nature Made Magnesium Oxide
• Best Powder Magnesium Supplement: Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate
• Best Magnesium Complex: Klaire Labs Mag Complete
• Best Gummy Magnesium Supplement: Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummy
• Best Magnesium Supplement for Stress: Natural Calm

Uncapping the Truth: What is Magnesium

Before diving into our top magnesium supplements, let’s uncap what the essential mineral is so you can better understand its importance. As the National Institutes of Health (NIH) tells us, magnesium is involved in over 300 cellular processes in the body, which alone signals just how important it is.

While we’ll dive deeper into the benefits of magnesium throughout and compile them near the end (so be sure to stick with us!), it’s involved in energy production, protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and infinitely-ish more. 

Despite its critical importance, magnesium has recently been named “the forgotten electrolyte²” because it often doesn’t receive attention like other electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. However, magnesium is still a key component in some of the best electrolyte drinks, although it’s found in other sources as well. 

High Magnesium Sources, Yet Low Magnesium Intakes

Magnesium is naturally found in various food sources, including spinach, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. And in general, foods rich in dietary fiber (found in most plants) tend to provide magnesium. 

But like dietary fiber intake, Americans tend to fall shy of the recommended magnesium intake. The 2017 review¹ estimates that 56 to 68% of Americans do not have enough magnesium in their daily diet.

How could this be? Many factors are at play, but diets rich in ultra-processed foods contain diminished magnesium levels. Common dietary staples in the Westernized diet contribute less than 20% of daily magnesium requirements. 

Interestingly, too, vitamin D deficiency can reduce the absorption of magnesium. Alas, a deficiency of the sunshine vitamin is also on the rise—so one of the best vitamin D supplements may help. 

Speaking of supplements, magnesium also comes in supplemental form often on its own, in the best multivitamins for men and women, or another elixir blend. There are many forms of supplemental magnesium—like magnesium glycinate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium oxide—that each comes with its own benefits and potential side effects, which we’ll touch upon. 

Of course, we always encourage eating more wholesome, nutrient-rich foods to lower deficiency risks and optimize your health. But we likewise understand supplements can and do have their time and place to fill in any nutritional gaps, and that is exactly why we want to share our top magnesium supplements with you and how the various forms could enrich your health.

Best Magnesium Supplement Overall: Transparent Labs Magnesium Bisglycinate

Good for: Enhancing your daily magnesium intake with high-quality, third-party tested capsules

Best Overall

Transparent Labs Magnesium Bisglycinate

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• 3 tablets provides 300 g of magnesium bisglycinate
• Transparent list of ingredients
• Reportedly high bioavailability
• Benefits include improved sleep, recovery, and energy
• Vegan-friendly

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Bioavailable form of magnesium
• Transparent Labs claims it is not a laxative
• Relatively affordable
• Most users experienced the advertised benefits (sleep, recovery, energy)

Cons

• Some users didn’t like the inclusion of silicone dioxide

Bottom Line

Transparent Labs' Magnesium Bisglycinate tablets provide 300 grams of reportedly highly bioavailable, non-laxative magnesium supplement intended to improve sleep, recovery, and energy levels. As a vegan-friendly product, this affordable supplement receives raves reviews. While the vast majority of users report very positive benefits when taking this magnesium, there are a few outliers who did not appreciate the inclusion of silicone dioxide.

Transparent Labs provides high-quality products and full transparency about them, its single-ingredient magnesium supplement included. As our best magnesium supplement overall, let’s see what this single-ingredient magnesium supplement is all about. 

Each three-capsule serving provides 300 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate chelate, a combo of magnesium and the amino acid glycine. Also known as magnesium glycinate and chelated magnesium, magnesium bisglycinate provides great absorbability with fewer side effects—like diarrhea and abdominal cramping—compared to other forms of magnesium.

GGR head of content Kate Meier tested Transparent Labs’ magnesium out, and said the capsules are quite large—and you have to take three per serving. Keep that in mind if you don’t like swallowing pills. 

While we cover dosing in full below, how much supplemental magnesium you get varies based on many factors—like the intended use and the amount of magnesium you consume from food sources. But to provide context for Transparent Lab’s 300-milligram dose, and the other options ahead, the Daily Value (DV) for magnesium is 420 milligrams daily for an adult male and 320 milligrams for an adult female.

Like all Transparent Lab products, its magnesium supplement is free of artificial ingredients and third-party tested. You can even view its Certificate of Analysis (COA), aligning perfectly with the brand’s commitment to transparency. 

Best Magnesium Supplement for Athletes: Legion Sucrosomial Magnesium

Good for: Supporting your daily fitness, health, and magnesium goals

Best for Athletes

Legion Sucrosomial Magnesium

GGR Score: 4.15

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Product Highlights

• Magnesium supplement designed for athletes
• Supports athletic performance, mood, sleep, bone, and heart health
• 150 mg of magnesium per 1-capsule serving
• NSF-certified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable at $0.25 per serving
• No return necessary money-back guarantee
• Third-party tested

Cons

• Dosage may be low depending on what your goals are

Bottom Line

Committed to providing clinically effective doses and total formulation transparency, Legion is a supplement brand we trust and regularly recommend. And supposedly providing a scientifically proven form of magnesium that supports athletic performance, amongst other benefits, Legion Sucrosomial Magnesium could be a great option for athletes and health enthusiasts alike. 

If you’re wondering what “Sucrosominal Magnesium” is all about, it’s a patented form of magnesium oxide protected by a sucrosomial complex trademarked by Maypro. The company website tells us that phospholipids and sucrose esters cover magnesium to enhance absorption—and apparently absorb faster with 20 percent higher bioavailability than magnesium citrate. A 2018 study³ further suggests that sucrosomial magnesium leads to an increased bioavailability of magnesium compared to other forms like magnesium oxide. 

And regarding those athletic benefits, out of all of the minerals, magnesium (and iron) has the strongest quality evidence⁴ for improving athletic and muscle performance. But given that magnesium helps with energy metabolism and muscle function, it’s unsurprising that it may support athletic endeavors.

Specific to magnesium oxide, there’s some research⁵ hinting that supplementing with it for 12 weeks seems to improve physical performance in healthy older women. Overall, because adequate magnesium levels⁶ are positively linked to muscle performance and cardiorespiratory health during aerobic exercise, adequate intake should be emphasized over the form.

Like all Legion products, we appreciate that the magnesium supplement is free of artificial ingredients. Oh, and Legion offers a “no return necessary” money-back guarantee and will give you a full refund on the spot—no forms or return necessary! 

And as the magnesium-rich cherry on top, Legion products are also made in U.S.-based, National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-certified, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-inspected, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)-compliant facilities. They also undergo third-party testing to ensure it meets FDA purity standards, and you can even view each product’s COA on the Sucrosomial Magnesium product page.

GGR head of content Kate Meier tested Legion’s magnesium and said the pill was easy to swallow—she appreciated the serving size is only one capsule, too. She regularly takes magnesium and didn’t notice any interruption or side effects when swapping this product in, which is a good thing. 

Best High-Dose Magnesium Supplement: LifeForce Magnesium

Good for: Those who need a high magnesium dose to treat anxiety-related symptoms

Best High-Dose

LifeForce Magnesium

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• 315 mg of magnesium per serving
• High dose
• Mix of magnesium sources
• 30 servings per container
• Subscription options available

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High dose
• Mix of magnesium sources
• Subscription options available

Cons

• Pills are chalky and tough to swallow
• Pricey ($2 per serving)
• Not the best for heart-related issues

Bottom Line

LifeForce Magnesium is a high-dose magnesium supplement that may help alleviate anxiety-related symptoms.

If you’re looking for the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to dosage, LifeForce Magnesium contains 315 milligrams of magnesium per three-tablet serving. Registered dietitian Laila Ouldibbat says that amount is perfect for anyone looking to take magnesium to alleviate stress or anxiety-related symptoms.

“Glad it falls within the recommended daily allowance and ‘stress dose,'” Laila says. A 2017 review of studies on magnesium found supplementing with the micronutrient reduced stress-related symptoms such as mild anxiousness, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and hypertension. There were no improvements in postpartum anxiety, the study found.

Laila warns, however, that users should know how much magnesium they’re getting from their food in addition to this magnesium supplement. The average adult should limit themselves to 350 milligrams of magnesium per day—not far from the 315 mg dose. Excess magnesium could lead to an upset gastro-intestinal tract.

Kate Meier, GGR head of content and expert product tester, didn’t notice much of a change in her mood during her testing. She added that the tablets were large and “very chalky.”

“I couldn’t take all three at once,” Kate says.

Best Magnesium Supplement for Brain Health: Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate

Good for: Boosting magnesium levels and supporting an intelligent noggin

Best for Brain Health

Double Wood Magnesium Threonate

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• 144 mg of magnesium threonate (Magtein) per serving
• Uses a highly bioavailable form of magnesium
• Third-party tested
• COAs and third-party testing results are available on the product website

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Uses a highly bioavailable form of magnesium
• Third-party tested
• COAs available

Cons

• Expensive for magnesium
• Only 25 servings for bottle
• Each serving is 4 capsules

Bottom Line

Double Wood Magnesium Threonate provides a high-quality source of magnesium, and it's third-party tested with testing results and COAs available on the website. Even though each serving size is four capsules, they're relatively small and easy to swallow.

A serving of Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate provides 144 milligrams of magnesium sourced from Magtein, the patented name for magnesium L-threonate (MgT). According to Magceutics, the company that owns the Magtein patent, magnesium L-threonate is a mineral salt of magnesium, a brain-bioavailable form of magnesium that is typically well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects. This type of magnesium is often considered the best for brain health.

Most of the research on the effects of magnesium L-threonate are animal studies, including these 2010¹⁸ and 2019 studies¹⁹ that imply MgT improves brain-related functions like learning and memory. Fast forward to 2022, a study²⁰ suggests that Magtein, paired with vitamins C and D, may improve memory and cognition in healthy adults. 

Our tester didn’t notice any particularly strong benefits from using Double Wood Magnesium L-Threonate, but mentioned they were pleasantly surprised by the capsule size, rating the swallowability a 5 out of 5. They said, “The serving size is four pills that are all roughly the size of a quarter. I was able to get them down in one swig. There’s no taste either, which helps with getting them down.”

While the front of the bottle says 2,000 milligrams per serving, the nutrition label clarifies that this provides 144 milligrams of elemental magnesium, which is the total amount of active magnesium in the 2,000 milligrams of magnesium salt.

The capsules are manufactured in the United States, and are gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. Double Wood also uses third-party testing for these capsules, and you can see the Certificate of Analysis and third-party testing results on the company website.

Best Budget Magnesium Supplement: Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate

Good for: Supplementing with a high absorbable magnesium at a lower cost

Best Budget

Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• 2 capsules provide 200 mg or chelated magnesium glycinate
• Claimed to have high absorption
• Chelated to reduce and prevent digestion issues
• Formulated to promote muscle relaxation and heart, nerve, and bone health

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Many users report it is easy to digest
• Chelated magnesium
• Established brand
• Gluten-free

Cons

• Pill size is too large for some

Bottom Line

Formulated with 200 milligrams of chelated magnesium glycinate, two capsules of Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate capsules are claimed to promote muscle relaxation and heart, nerve, and bone health. According to Nature Made, the chelation process is intended to reduce or prevent digestion issues. If you struggle swallowing large pills, you should note that there are a few consumers who found the pill size to be too large.

While great for any budget, Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate is far from low-quality! And for extra savings, and longer-term use, we recommend snagging the 180-count filled with 90 servings—this amounts to about $0.57 per day versus about $0.70 per day for the 60-count, 30-day supply. 

Your health-devoted $0.55 per day provides 200 milligrams of highly absorbable magnesium glycinate to support a healthy heart, bones, and nervous system. This form of magnesium may also be gentler on the stomach than others like magnesium oxide. 

GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly tried these Nature Made tablets and said for the price, you can’t beat them. “Did it help me fall asleep? Yes, but not to the point where I’d take them every night,” he says. “I do take them now if I need to fall asleep quickly, such as the night before a flight or something like that.”

Although Nature Made prides itself on being the first vitamin brand to earn United States Pharmacopeia (USP) verification on many of its products, there’s no sign online that its magnesium supplement is. But we like that it’s free of synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, and gluten. 

Best Magnesium Supplement for Constipation: NOW Magnesium Citrate

Good for: Promoting regularity one magnesium capsule at a time

Best for Constipation

NOW Magnesium Capsules

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• 1 pill provides 400 mg magnesium
• Claimed to be a required cofactor for 300 enzymes
• Stated to be critical for energy production and metabolism
• Reportedly aids nerve impulse transmission and bone mineralization
• GMP quality–assured, NPA A-rated

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Several reports of decreased restless legs
• Many found it promotes sleep
• Easy-to-swallow
• Relatively affordable
• Kosher-, vegan-, and soy-free
• Keto, non-GMO, and halal

Cons

• May have a laxative affect
• Reports of receiving fewer pills in bottle than advertised

Bottom Line

NOW Magnesium pills each contain 400 milligrams of magnesium, which NOW claims to be a necessary cofactor for 300 enzymes and critical for energy production, metabolism, nerve impulse transmission, and bone mineralization. This supplement is GMP quality–assured and NPA A-rated. However, there are some who experienced laxative effects when taking this.

Google search “magnesium functions,” and you’ll find roles related to helping with muscle and nerve function, managing blood sugar levels, regulating blood pressure, and supporting immune health, amongst others. Search for “magnesium citrate,” it makes sense why NOW Magnesium Citrate is crowned to send you back to your porcelain throne.

NOW provides 400 milligrams of magnesium citrate, a form of magnesium well known for its laxative effects. It works by increasing fluid in the small intestine, thus softening the stool and relieving constipation, often within 30 minutes to 6 hours.

GGR staff writer Lauren Strong says this magnesium was recommended to her for pelvic floor health, as well as regularity, by her physical therapist. “I like that the one pill has a 400-milligram dose, which is exactly how much I’m supposed to take.”

Early 1990 research¹¹ shows that magnesium citrate is more soluble and bioavailable than magnesium oxide, another form of magnesium commonly used to treat constipation. Newer 2017 research¹²  confirms and supports the former data, suggesting magnesium citrate may be more suitable than magnesium oxide for optimizing dietary magnesium intake.

To totally support your gut health, we recommend checking out the best prebiotic, best probiotic, and best fiber supplements (especially if you aren’t getting enough of these in your daily diet).

But back to the NOW, its magnesium citrate is not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, egg, fish, shellfish, and tree nuts. However, it’s made in a GMP facility (great to see!) that processes common food allergens (so please select accordingly). 

Best Magnesium Supplement for Migraines: Nature Made Magnesium Oxide

Good for: Alleviating migraines and increasing magnesium intake with one daily capsule

Best Magnesium Supplement for Migraines

Nature Made Magnesium Oxide

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• 250-mg tablets of magnesium oxide
• Supports muscle relaxation, nerve, heart, and bone health
• Magnesium oxide supposed to help specifically with migraines
• 100 tablets per bottle

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very affordable
• Can help with headaches

Cons

• Can have a laxative effect
• Some reviewers felt like the capsules were too large or awkwardly sized

Bottom Line

Nature Made magnesium oxide tablets provide 250 milligrams per capsule and can support muscle relaxation, nerve, heart, and bone health. Magnesium oxide specifically can help manage headaches as well.

Did you know magnesium can help with migraines? According to the American Migraine Foundation, a 400 to 600-milligram dose of magnesium oxide may prevent migraines. A recent 2021 study¹³ further supports that magnesium oxide may be as effective as valproate sodium¹⁴, a medication for migraines.

Nature Made provides 400 milligrams of magnesium oxide per 1 soft gel serving, aligning with the 400 to 600 milligram dose for migraine. Beyond managing and preventing migraines, the Nature Made magnesium supplement is formulated to support bone, nerve, and heart health. 

It’s important to note that magnesium oxide can have a strong laxative effect and is the reason why it’s often used to treat constipation. 

GGR senior editor Nicole Davis has been supplementing with Nature Made’s magnesium oxide to help with headaches during pregnancy, and has noticed a huge improvement in her symptoms—consider her sold!

And as previously mentioned, many of Nature Made’s products are third-party tested and certified through USP. But like its magnesium glycinate supplement, there’s no indication of USP certification on magnesium oxide’s product page.  

Best Powder Magnesium Supplement: Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate

Good for: Mixing and sipping a lightly-sweetened, third-party tested magnesium powder

Best Powder

Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Lightly sweetened powder providing 200 mg of magnesium bisglycinate
• Formulated to promote sleep and muscle relaxation
• NSF-certified 
• Claimed to support muscles, tendons, bone, heart, vascular, and foundational health
• Stated to be well-tolerated and well-absorbed

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Mixes well
• Clean ingredients
• Naturally sweetened with monk fruit
• Users report positive effects after taking

Cons

• Sweeter taste is not for everyone

Bottom Line

Lightly sweetened with monk fruit, Thorne’s Magnesium Bisglycinate delivers 200 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate per scoop. According to Thorne, this form of magnesium is both well-tolerated and well-absorbed. Formulated to promote sleep and muscle relaxation, Thorne also claims it will support muscle, tendons, bone, heart, vascular, and foundational health.

Thorne Research is known for its high-quality ingredients in clinically effective doses, even collaborating with Mayo Clinic, and that’s one of the reasons why we awarded it the best iron supplement overall. All this to say, it’s really not so surprising that its magnesium powder landed on our top picks. 

Formulated to promote restful sleep and muscle relaxation, one scoop of the taste-free powder provides 200 milligrams of magnesium bisglycinate. While the powder does not indicate a specific flavor, it is sweetened with the natural sweetener monk fruit. It’s also free from gluten, added sugars, thickeners, and artificial flavors and colors.

Thorne’s facilities are verified by multiple international third-party organizations, including Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration, a regulatory agency run by the Australian Government Department of Health. Thorne supplements are also NSF Certified for Sport,  meaning they have been tested for and are free of over 200 substances banned by many major sports organizations.

Best Magnesium Complex: Klaire Labs Mag Complete

Good for: Obtaining multiple forms of magnesium with a single goal of increasing daily intake

Best Complex

Klaire Labs Magnesium Glycinate Complex

GGR Score: 4.15

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Product Highlights

• Each serving provides 100 mg of magnesium (bisglycinate chelate and magnesium oxide)
• Magnesium and amino acid combination claimed to enhance bioavailability
• Chelation process intended to prevent stomach discomfort
• Hypoallergenic supplement
• Formulated to promote sleep and reduce muscle cramps

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Many reports of improved sleep
• Users found it reduces muscle cramps and anxiety
• Typically well-tolerated by most
• Easy-to-swallow

Cons

• Magnesium oxide ingredient may cause GI issues

Bottom Line

Klaire Labs’ Magnesium Glycinate Complex delivers 100 milligrams of magnesium per serving, utilizing a combination of magnesium bisglycinate chelate and magnesium oxide, which creates a unique chelated compound. The chelation process is intended to improve bioavailability while reducing potential stomach discomfort. The supplement is hypoallergenic and formulated to promote better sleep and reduce muscle cramps, which most users seem to experience.

Is taking more than one form of magnesium best? According to Klaire Labs, “a blend of four bioavailable forms of magnesium allows your body to optimally absorb and use this vital mineral.” But you know how we roll at GGR, so let’s dig into the data.

Klaire Labs Mag Complete provides 240 milligrams of magnesium sourced from four different forms of magnesium: magnesium succinate, magnesium taurinate (also referred to as magnesium taurate or acetyl taurate), magnesium malate, and magnesium aspartate.

A 2019 study¹⁵ suggests magnesium acetyl taurate and malate forms have higher absorbability than magnesium citrate and oxide, while magnesium aspartate shows to compensate for deficiency more effectively and faster than 10+ other forms according to 2010 data.¹⁶ However, it’s important to note that the results are based on animal studies, and more human studies should be conducted.

Interestingly, GGR staff writer Lauren Strong found that Mag Complete gave her trouble sleeping. “It was noticeable that I wasn’t falling asleep as easily as I do with other magnesium blends.” And while this is not the common side effect, we thought we should call it out.

Best Gummy Magnesium Supplement: Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummy

Good for: Kids and adults alike who prefer chewable nutrients beyond their food

Best Gummy

Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummy

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Watermelon or tangerine-flavored gummies
• Each serving provides 84 mg of magnesium citrate
• Formulated to enhance mood, focus, energy, and gut health
• Claimed to relieve muscle cramps
• 100% organic ingredients

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Most consumers enjoy the taste
• Organic ingredients
• Can be taken by children or adults
• 3rd-party tested for purity and potency

Cons

• Too sweet for some; has added sugar
• Only 20% of daily recommended magnesium

Bottom Line

If you prefer chewables over capsules, Trace Minerals’ Magnesium Gummies come in either watermelon or tangerine flavor, each of which contains 84 milligrams of magnesium citrate. According to Trace Minerals, these 100% organic gummies are formulated to improve mood, focus, energy, and gut health, while also relieving muscle cramps. Although the majority of reviewers appreciated the taste, some found it too sugary and sweet.

You should ideally bite into magnesium-rich foods—like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains—on a daily basis. But Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies can conveniently supplement your magnesium intake in just a few chews. 

One gummy serving provides 84 milligrams of magnesium citrate to support a healthy mood, energy levels, and mental focus. The small dose in each gummy makes them suitable for children and Trace Minerals recommends kids aged 4 to 12 years to chew 1 gummy per day. Anyone aged 13 and older can chew 1 gummy up to 4 times daily spread throughout the day to mitigate the laxative effect of magnesium citrate. 

Like most gummy supplements, all three flavors—Peach, Tangerine, and Watermelon—contain added sugars sourced from organic cane sugar and organic tapioca syrup. But unlike most gummies, these are gelatin-free, making them a great option for a vegan diet.

GGR head of content Kate Meier tried these gummies, and she said not only are they delicious, they work, too. “I take four at a time; they provide a very calming effect and help me sleep. I have wild dreams, too!”

Speaking of, Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies are Certified Vegan and also free of gluten and GMOs. While no identifiable logo indicates additional third-party testing, Trace Minerals claims its “rigorous standards and certifications from manufacturing to packaging guarantee clean, trustworthy products.”

Best Magnesium Supplement for Stress: Natural Vitality Calm 

Good for: Combatting day-to-day stress one sip of magnesium at a time 

Best for Stress

Natural Vitality Calm

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Formulated with 330 mg of magnesium citrate per serving
• Designed to reduce stress and improve sleep and energy
• Claimed to be better absorbed than other forms of magnesium 
• May be taken by both children and adults
• Orange-flavored gummies
• Vegan- and non-GMO–verified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comparably affordable
• For both adults or kids
• Users report a good taste
• Reportedly effective in promoting sleep and decreased stress
• No artificial flavoring or color

Cons

• Some reports of customers receiving a damaged product
• Contains sugar

Bottom Line

Natural Vitality’s Calm gummies provide 330 milligrams of magnesium citrate per serving, which is claimed to be better absorbed by the body than other forms of magnesium. Formulated to help reduce stress and improve sleep and energy, these gummies may be taken by adults or children. While most users appreciate the orange and raspberry lemon taste, these gummies do contain sugar and may be too sweet for some user’s preferences.

Breathe in, breathe out… Sip Natural Vitality Calm, and mellow out. If you’re seeing this Natural Vitality, new slogan? And if you’re seeing this in hopes of managing stress, Natural Calm might be your newest supplement stack addition. 

The calming magnesium powder provides 350 milligrams of magnesium carbonate in a 2-tablespoon serving size. Magnesium carbonate is joined with citric acid, so when they’re added to water, it forms magnesium citrate—but does it really ease stress?

Based on a 2017 review¹, emotional stress—whether related to excitement, anxiety, or depression—increases the need for magnesium. This is likely because magnesium converts tryptophan to serotonin, a neurotransmitter majorly linked to mental health and mood. Complementary evidence published in Nutritional Neuroscience¹⁷ suggests magnesium supplementation may prevent depression and be an adjunctive therapy.

The magnesium-calming drink comes in its original, unflavored option and five flavors—Cherry, Lemon, Orange, Raspberry Lemon, and Watermelon—all free of added sugar, fructose, and artificial colors and flavors. 

“I have taken Natural Calm, either as a powder or as gummies, on and off for years,” says GGR head of content Kate Meier. “I love it. I always sleep better when I take it (and it always gives me dreams that are totally bananas!). I started off just taking two at a time, and now I take four gummies.”

Other Magnesium Supplements We Researched

While we stand by our top picks, we also researched these other magnesium supplements, which we haven’t had a chance to try yet: 

• Live Conscious Magwell Magnesium Zinc & Vitamin D3
• MegaFood Magnesium
• Nested Magnesium Glycinate
• Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Citrate

How We Picked and Tested the Best Magnesium Supplements

Wanna get in on a little secret? When picking and testing the best magnesium supplements, our team of registered dietitians and licensed nutrition experts use our supplement testing methodology to look at things like:

• Magnesium form: Beyond satisfying your daily magnesium needs, different types of magnesium supplements elicit different benefits. Whether your focus is relieving constipation, improving sleep, or enhancing brain health, our list of magnesium supplements is diverse to satisfy the various needs of our readers. 

• Formulation: What’s inside each supplement matters most, so we captured magnesium products formulated with high-quality ingredients and without artificial ingredients, fillers, and preservatives.  

• Third-party testing: Finding products that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and undergo third-party testing is at the top of our priority list.

• Cost: Because everyone’s budget varies, and we believe everyone should have access to supplements and products to optimize their health, you’ll always find different price options on our roundups. 

• Consumer satisfaction: We want to guide our readers to companies with their best interests in mind, so we always review their core values, return policies, and customer reviews on the companies’ websites and third-party seller sites like Amazon. 

Benefits of Magnesium Supplements

Active in over 300 processes in the body, the health benefits of magnesium follow suit. Here’s how magnesium supplements could enhance your health for the better:¹ 

• May improve athletic and muscle performance and help alleviate muscle cramps that may inhibit performance 
• Can help control blood sugar levels in healthy individuals and those managing type 1 diabetes²¹ and type 2 diabetes²²
• Supports bone health and lowers the risk of osteoporosis, which makes sense given 53% of magnesium reserves are in bone
• Relieves constipation, particularly with the help of magnesium citrate and oxide forms 
• Prevents and manages migraines, even showing to be as effective as medications¹³ 
• Promotes a good night’s rest and improves sleep efficiency, time, and onset⁷
• Supports cardiovascular health by reducing high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, irregular heartbeats
• Bolsters mental health by preventing depression, improving mood, and alleviating stress 
• Enhances cognition, especially learning and memory function¹⁸
• Offers nutritional insurance and convenience if/when magnesium-rich food sources are not readily available 

Dosing and Interactions 

While magnesium supplements are mostly considered safe, you should still dose them accordingly. Magnesium can also interact with certain medications and supplements, posing serious risks and reducing effectiveness. 

Dosing Magnesium

While there’s no standardized magnesium supplement dose, the tolerable upper limit of magnesium supplementation is 350 milligrams per day without side effects. However, higher levels can be used as indicated, but consuming too much magnesium can lead to digestive diarrhea, muscle weakness, and other adverse side effects.¹

As a starting point, it’s wise to understand how much magnesium you need each day. Provided by the NIH, the RDAs (or the average daily intake to meet nutrient requirements) below indicate the amount of magnesium to consume based on life stage. 

*Recommendation based on Adequate Intake (AI)

Magnesium Interactions 

Did you know certain nutrients can interfere with how other supplements and medications work in the body? This can downplay anticipated results and even be really dangerous in some instances. The NIH tells us that magnesium supplements can interact or interfere with some medicines and supplements, including: 

• Antibiotics
• Bisphosphonates
• Diuretics 
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Zinc supplements 

But before taking any sort of supplement, we always recommend consulting with a dietitian, doctor, or another healthcare professional. They can help you determine a dose of magnesium right for you, especially if you have high or low levels of magnesium, and review any interaction risks. 

Third-Party Testing

Did you know that dietary supplements aren’t tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)? This is why we always prioritize companies who voluntarily have their products third-party tested to verify purity and safety. Reputable, third-party testing stamps to look out for include:

• Informed Sport 
• National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)
• US Pharmacopeia (USP) Verification 

The FDA does, however, establish Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) regulations for quality assurance that we recommend looking out for. Products can also be certified to help consumers make well-informed decisions related to specific dietary restrictions and preferences, like being Certified Gluten-Free or USDA Organic. 

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Magnesium Supplements

Before committing to and starting a magnesium supplement, make sure you check off these boxes to find one that best supports your nutritional needs and goals: 

• Intended use: Consider if there’s a specific use for taking a magnesium supplement beyond supporting your daily magnesium intake. For instance, magnesium citrate is best known for managing constipation, while magnesium L-threonate might support cognition.¹⁹ 
• Magnesium dose: If you’re already taking a multivitamin and regularly consuming magnesium-rich foods, you might start with a lower dose. But again, consult with a dietitian or another healthcare professional for expert guidance on how much supplemental magnesium you need. 
• Dietary restrictions and preferences: Choose a product that factors your dietary restrictions and preferences, like being vegan or gluten-free. 
• Intake form: Do you prefer gummies, capsules, or powders? Are you okay with taking larger doses multiple times daily or do you want a one-and-done product? These are important factors to consider so you’ll be more apt to take the supplement consistently. 
• Budget: Factor in how much you’re willing to spend on a supplement, especially for long-term use if or as needed. 
• Third-party testing: Opt for third-party tested products manufactured in GMP-compliant facilities as often as possible. 

Magnesium Supplements FAQs

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

References

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Sydney Lappe, R.D.

Sydney Lappe is a St. Louis-based Registered Dietitian with 6+ years of nutrition editing and writing experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and completed undergrad work in psychology. While fitness wasn’t in Sydney’s routine growing up, it quickly became a large part of her daily life while studying the facets of health and nutrition. Also managing chronic pain, she has come to fully realize movement is a special gift to never take for granted and hopes to inspire others to invest in their physical, mental, and emotional wellness while they can. Including her passion for all things health, Sydney enjoys spending time with her loved ones, being active in various capacities, drinking bottomless cups of coffee, eating a hearty bowl of oatmeal, and letting her creativity roam through writing and graphic design.

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