05/15/2026
✨️I found this list I think will be super helpful...
Pretty much everyone should be taking magnesium (it's really hard to get enough in our diets nowadays), but there's a problem...
Most magnesium supplements contain magnesium oxide, which is the cheapest form of magnesium.
So?
Well, magnesium oxide, as well as magnesium hydroxide and magnesium carbonate, are not very well absorbed and they can cause abdominal discomfort.
Does that mean if they're working for you, you should stop taking them? Absolutely not. What about other magnesiums I don't mention in the list? If they work, go for it. These just have specific benefits.
However, there are about 2 dozen different types of magnesium to take and it's extremely confusing.
Here is a list to make it simple. Feel free to share this with anyone you think might benefit.
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✨️Magnesium glycinate:
➡️My first choice for general supplementation. Easy on the gut. Well-absorbed.
⚠️Dose: 200-400 mg/day
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✨️Magnesium citrate:
➡️A good second choice if glycinate isn't tolerated (everyone is different). Loosens stools at higher doses - can use for constipation.
⚠️Dose 200-400 mg/day (can go up to 800 for constipation if normal kidney function)
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✨️Magnesium threonate:
➡️The only form proven to cross the blood-brain barrier. More expensive. Use for anxiety and sleep that don't respond to other forms. May also improve cognitive function.
⚠️Dose: 1,000-2,000 mg/d (1-2 g/day) in divided doses
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✨️Magnesium malate:
➡️Supports energy production and muscle function - helpful for fibromyalgia symptoms.
⚠️Dose: 200-400 mg/day
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✨️Magnesium taurate:
➡️Relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. Dangerous with low blood pressure. Helpful with high blood pressure.
⚠️Dose: 125-250 mg/day in divided doses
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✨️Magnesium chloride:
➡️Useful for sore muscles and joint pain. Usually topical.
⚠️Dose: Follow instructions on label
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✨️Magnesium sulfate (AKA Epsom salt):
➡️Helps with soreness and relaxation.
⚠️Dose: 1-2 teaspoons taken orally or dissolved in water, or you can add 1-2 cups dissolved in a bath
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You can take more than one kind at a time, but you have to add the doses up. Don't exceed 600-800 mg/day combined if mixing anything except magnesium threonate) without talking to your doctor.
Also speak with your doctor first if you take any medications or have any kidney issues... or both.
Hope this is helpful!
-Dr. Wright MD