The Many Types of Magnesium Explained
Magnesium has been a popular supplement for many years, and it comes in more forms than most people realise. What many people don't realize is that not all magnesium is created equal. There are several different types of magnesium supplements available, and each one pairs magnesium with a different compound.
In this article, we're going to explore four popular types of magnesium supplements: magnesium malate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium taurate. We'll discuss what makes each one different. Whether you're on a keto or low-carb diet or simply working out which one to pick off the shelf, we've got you covered.
Magnesium Malate:
This form of magnesium is a combination of magnesium and malic acid, an organic compound found in fruits like apples. The malic acid is what distinguishes magnesium malate from the other forms on this list, and it is one of the more widely available options in both capsule and powder form.
This form of magnesium is bonded with the amino acid glycine. Because glycine is an amino acid rather than a mineral salt or an acid, magnesium glycinate sits apart from most of the other forms on the shelf, and it is one of the most widely used forms in supplements and electrolyte blends.
This type of magnesium is a combination of magnesium and gluconic acid, a carbohydrate that's naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It is one of the longer-established forms of magnesium on the market, and the gluconic acid is what gives it its name.
This form of magnesium is bonded with the amino acid taurine, which is where the name comes from. Like magnesium glycinate, it pairs the mineral with an amino acid rather than an acid or a salt, which is the main thing that sets these two apart from malate and gluconate.
Whether you opt for magnesium malate, glycinate, gluconate, or taurate, all four are magnesium supplements that differ in the compound the magnesium is paired with. They are also a common choice for those following a keto or low-carb diet, which tends to be low in magnesium-rich foods like beans and whole grains.
Magnesium is a dietary mineral found in foods like beans and whole grains. Each of the four forms above pairs it with a different compound, and that pairing is what gives each one its name and its place on the shelf. Consider which form of magnesium may be right for you, and always consult with a physician before starting any new supplement regimen.