Magnesium 500 mg
Nature's Bounty
Magnesium 500 mg
Magnesium 500 mg
Score 30.0
An incredibly affordable, high-dose magnesium supplement using magnesium oxide. Its low bioavailability renders it largely ineffective for systemic health goals, making its primary use as a laxative.
Quantity: 100 Tablet(s) • (100 servings)
Goals:
Heart Health
Anti-Aging
Cardiovascular Support
Mental Focus
Digestive Health
Score 30.0
An incredibly affordable, high-dose magnesium supplement using magnesium oxide. Its low bioavailability renders it largely ineffective for systemic health goals, making its primary use as a laxative.
Analysis
Nature's Bounty Magnesium 500 mg provides a high dose of 500mg of magnesium, exclusively in the form of Magnesium Oxide. While the dose is substantial and the price per serving is exceptionally low, Magnesium Oxide is known for its very poor systemic bioavailability, typically absorbing only about 4%. This means that an extremely minimal amount of this magnesium will be absorbed for physiological functions like supporting energy, stress relief, heart health, bone health, mood, metabolism, or sleep. Its primary and most effective function is as an osmotic laxative. The high review count likely includes many users who appreciate its cost-effectiveness or its intended laxative properties.
Pros
- Very high dose of elemental magnesium per serving
- Exceptionally low price per serving
- Popular brand with a high number of reviews
Cons
- Extremely low systemic bioavailability of Magnesium Oxide
- Strong potential for laxative effects due to poor absorption
- Not suitable for comprehensive magnesium repletion for broad health goals
Warnings
- High doses of poorly absorbed magnesium are highly likely to cause diarrhea or significant gastrointestinal upset.
- Not recommended for addressing systemic magnesium deficiency unless the primary concern is constipation.
$5.92($0.05 per serving)
 Walmart | $ 5.92 | |
 Vitacost | $ 7.49 | |
 Amazon | $ 7.88 | |
 iHerb | $ 10.30 |
Effectiveness for goals
The effectiveness of magnesium can vary by its specific form due to differences in bioavailability and targeted uses. For instance, magnesium L-threonate is researched for cognitive support due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium citrate is often chosen for digestive regularity, while magnesium glycinate is frequently used for relaxation benefits and high absorption.
Magnesium contributes to the regulation of neurotransmitters and hormones involved in the sleep cycle. Studies indicate that magnesium supplementation may help improve sleep quality, especially in older adults or those with restless leg syndrome. It is often sought for its calming properties that can support relaxation.
Magnesium plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and sleep. Some studies indicate that magnesium supplementation may improve sleep quality, especially in older adults or those with insomnia symptoms, by helping to calm the nervous system. More research is needed to fully understand its effects across different populations.
Magnesium contributes to the relaxation of blood vessels and may help regulate blood pressure. Some studies have shown a modest reduction in blood pressure, especially in individuals with hypertension or at risk for it, with magnesium supplementation. The effect can vary based on individual health status and existing conditions.
Magnesium plays a vital role in muscle contraction and relaxation. Some research suggests that magnesium supplementation may help reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle cramps, particularly in individuals experiencing magnesium deficiency. It is a commonly explored option for this purpose.
Dosage, timing & forms
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and sex, generally ranging from 310-420 mg for adult men and 310-320 mg for adult women. These recommendations are for dietary intake from food and supplements combined. It is important to consult current health guidelines for specific age and life stages.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adult men is 400-420 mg per day, and for adult women, it is 310-320 mg per day. These recommendations can vary slightly based on age and life stage. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Common forms include magnesium citrate, oxide, glycinate, and L-threonate. Magnesium citrate is often used for bowel regularity, while magnesium oxide has lower bioavailability but is a common, inexpensive form. Magnesium glycinate is typically well-absorbed and gentle on the stomach, and magnesium L-threonate is studied for its potential to cross the blood-brain barrier.
Excessive intake of magnesium from supplements, but not from food, can lead to side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. In very high doses, it can cause more serious issues such as low blood pressure, muscle weakness, and irregular heartbeat. The tolerable upper intake level for supplemental magnesium is 350 mg per day for adults.
For healthy adults, the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for supplemental magnesium is 350 mg per day. This UL specifically applies to magnesium from supplements and medications, not from food or water. Exceeding this limit regularly may lead to adverse effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping.
Safety & interactions
Yes, magnesium supplements can interact with several types of medications. These include certain antibiotics (tetracyclines and quinolones), diuretics, proton pump inhibitors, and bisphosphonates. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional about potential interactions when taking medications.
Common side effects often involve the digestive system, such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. These effects are typically mild and more likely with higher doses or certain forms like magnesium citrate. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help mitigate these symptoms.
Common side effects, especially with higher doses, can include diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. These effects are often dose-dependent and may be mitigated by reducing the amount taken. Different forms of magnesium can also influence gastrointestinal tolerance.
While rare from food sources alone, excessive intake from supplements can lead to hypermagnesemia, particularly in individuals with impaired kidney function. Symptoms may include low blood pressure, lethargy, muscle weakness, and an irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
Individuals with impaired kidney function should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before taking magnesium supplements. Kidneys are responsible for excreting excess magnesium, and compromised function can lead to an accumulation of magnesium in the body. This accumulation can result in hypermagnesemia, which is potentially dangerous.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Magnesium | 500 mg |
Gluten Free Adults 18–50 Dairy Free Sugar Free
Report overviewCategories
Magnesium 35.0
Offers a very high quantity of magnesium at an excellent price point, but its very low systemic bioavailability due to being Magnesium Oxide significantly limits its functional value for comprehensive supplementation.
Goals
General Health 30.0
Despite the high elemental dose, the very low systemic absorption of Magnesium Oxide severely limits its contribution to the body's overall general health and functional processes.
Energy 25.0
Optimal energy production from magnesium requires efficient systemic absorption, which is profoundly lacking with Magnesium Oxide, resulting in minimal direct energy benefits.
Stress Relief 25.0
For magnesium to alleviate stress, systemic availability is essential, a function poorly provided by the low absorption of Magnesium Oxide into the nervous system.
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