Types of Magnesium Supplements

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the health of every body organ. It is especially important for the healthy function of the muscles, heart and kidneys. It aids in producing energy and helps to regulate several vitamin and mineral levels in the body including vitamin D, calcium, potassium, zinc and copper. Though magnesium is found in foods, many people do not eat enough unprocessed, whole foods to get their daily value of magnesium. Since they do not get enough magnesium in their diet, they can take a magnesium supplement to make sure that they are getting their daily value. There are several different types of magnesium supplements available so one must choose which one is right for them. Types of magnesium supplements include magnesium citrate, magnesium lactate, magnesium gluconate, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate and magnesium hydroxide.

Magnesium Citrate

• Magnesium citrate is often used to treat diarrhea. It can also be used to clear the bowel prior to certain stomach procedures. Magnesium citrate is indicated for short-term use and it is administered orally.

Magnesium Gluconate

• Magnesium gluconate is mainly used as a supplement to help maintain proper magnesium levels in the body. It may be used to treat other medical conditions if a doctor feels it is necessary. Magnesium gluconate can be taken long-term for most people and it is administered orally.

Magnesium Lactate

• Magnesium lactate is often used to correct a magnesium deficiency. It may be used to treat other medical conditions such as indigestion, heartburn or upset stomach. Magnesium lactate is administered orally, but can be administered through an injection under the supervision of a doctor. Magnesium lactate is taken for as long as a doctor recommends.

Magnesium Oxide

• Magnesium oxide is typically used as a supplement to help maintain proper magnesium levels in the body. It may also be used to treat other medical conditions if a doctor feels it is necessary. Magnesium oxide is administered orally and can be taken long-term for most people.

Magnesium Hydroxide

• Magnesium hydroxide is mostly used as a laxative and an antacid. As a laxative it can be used occasionally to alleviate constipation. As an antacid is can be used occasionally to alleviate sour stomach, indigestion or heartburn. Magnesium hydroxide should only be used short-term and is administered orally.

Magnesium Sulfate

• Magnesium sulfate is most commonly found in multi-vitamins. In higher doses it can be used to treat a magnesium deficiency, pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, convulsions and acute kidney inflammation in children. Magnesium sulfate can be used long-term for certain conditions and short-term for others. It can be administered orally or through an injection.