Magnesium Glycinate vs. Citrate vs. Oxide: What the Bottle Doesn't Make Obvious
Three common forms, three very different labels. Here's how to compare them without getting fooled by the biggest number on the front.
Shopping for magnesium usually means choosing between three words you've probably never thought much about: glycinate, citrate and oxide.
They're all magnesium. But the form changes the compound weight, the number on the front of the bottle and how much magnesium you're actually getting.
Here's the plain-English guide.
1.Every Form Is Magnesium Bound to Something.
Magnesium on a label is always paired with a partner molecule. That partner gives each form its name, and changes how much the whole compound weighs.
2.The Three Forms You'll See Most.
- Magnesium oxide: magnesium bound to oxygen. Common and inexpensive.
- Magnesium citrate: magnesium bound to citric acid. Widely used.
- Magnesium glycinate: magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine. A popular choice for an everyday supplement.
| Oxide · Citrate | Glycinate | |
|---|---|---|
| Bound to | Oxygen · Citric acid | The amino acid glycine |
| Compound needed for the same magnesium | Less · More | More |
| Typical price | Lower · Moderate | Higher |
3.The Biggest Number Isn't Always the Magnesium.
A bottle might advertise a large milligram number. That can be the weight of the whole compound, not the magnesium inside it.
4.Compare Elemental Magnesium and %DV.
The fair comparison across forms is the elemental magnesium amount and its % Daily Value. That's the number the Daily Value is based on, whatever the form.
The takeawaySame yardstick for every bottle: elemental mg and %DV.
5.Our Label, as an Example.
Earth Energy Magnesium Glycinate lists 2,500 mg magnesium glycinate providing 275 mg elemental magnesium (65% DV) per 3-capsule serving. Both numbers, side by side.
Earth Energy Magnesium Glycinate
- 275 mg elemental magnesium (65% DV)
- From 2,500 mg magnesium glycinate
- 3 capsules, once a day
- One-time purchase, no subscription
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Questions readers ask
How do I take it?
Adults take 3 capsules once daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Why two magnesium numbers?
2,500 mg is the magnesium glycinate compound. 275 mg is the magnesium itself, which the Daily Value is based on.
Is this a subscription?
No. Everything in this offer is a one-time purchase. You're only charged again if you place another order.
What if it's not for me?
Contact us within 30 days of delivery and we'll refund your order according to our refund policy.
Can I take it with medications?
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or have a medical condition.
This page is an advertisement for Earth Energy Magnesium Glycinate. Magnesium facts: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.