by: Radhia Gleis

Nearly every day someone comes into the store with questions about magnesium. Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical processes in the body. One of its most important functions is that it plays a key role in producing energy, this makes it vitally important for all cellular functions and processes. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm regular, supports a healthy immune system and keeps bones strong. The key to magnesium is getting enough.

There are so many kinds of magnesium, people become dazed and confused when it comes to picking the right magnesium for their needs. So, let’s break it down.. Magnesium oxide – often used in milk of magnesia products since this form has a strong laxative effect. Magnesium sulfate – used externally and is great for muscle relaxation. Magnesium Citrate – has a better bioavailability compared to oxide, but does have a stool loosening effect. Magnesium Aspartate – has shown to reduce muscle hyper-excitability. Magnesium Malate – preliminary evidence shows that it may reduce muscle pain and tender points, especially in fibromyalgia patients. Magnesium Orotate – it has been shown to improve heart failure, symptoms of angina and exercise performance in clinical trials. Magnesium Taurate – shown to reduce blood pressure, stabilize nerve cells, improve the contraction of the heart muscle and have an anti-thrombotic effect. Magnesium-L-Threonate – shown to improve memory and brain function. Magnesium Glycinate – glycine is a well-known, calming amino acid; this combination has good bioavailability and does not have a laxative effect. This is the magnesium our wellness consultants recommend most often and works well for sleep. Martin’s Wellness will be promoting it during the month of August.

I hope that clears up any confusion. Take this document into one of Martin’s pharmacies the next time you need to pick your magnesium or ask the wellness consultant to assist you with your magnesium needs.

Best of Health!

Radhia Gleis, Med, CCN, is a certified Clinical Nutritionist/Holistic Practitioner, Wellness Director for Martins Wellness Pharmacies with three locations in the Austin area. She is available for private consultation at the LakeHills Pharmacy, M-F, 1:30 to 6:30pm. Contact Radhia@cpdwellness.com