Calcium & Magnesium
NOW
Calcium & Magnesium
Magnesium 500 mg
Score 85.0
This NOW supplement provides magnesium citrate, a bioavailable form suitable for broad magnesium needs, widely recognized for its effectiveness.
Quantity: 250 Tablet(s) • (125 servings)
Goals:
Heart Health
Anti-Aging
Cardiovascular Support
Mental Focus
Digestive Health
Score 85.0
This NOW supplement provides magnesium citrate, a bioavailable form suitable for broad magnesium needs, widely recognized for its effectiveness.
Analysis
NOW's Calcium & Magnesium supplement features Magnesium Citrate, a form generally well-regarded by nutritionists and online reviews for its good bioavailability compared to cheaper forms like magnesium oxide. This form is particularly effective for aiding in digestion due to its mild laxative properties at higher doses, and it is also absorbed relatively well for systemic benefits such as supporting bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. Its popularity is reflected in the high review count, indicating broad user satisfaction for general magnesium supplementation.
Pros
- Magnesium Citrate form offers good bioavailability for absorption.
- Generally well-tolerated and effective for most common magnesium deficiencies.
- NOW is a highly reputable brand known for quality supplements.
- Good price per serving, offering excellent value for a bioavailable form.
Cons
- Can have a laxative effect in some individuals, especially at higher doses.
- Not as specialized for specific neurological benefits (like L-Threonate) or muscle recovery (like Malate).
$10.80($0.08 per serving)
 Daily Vita | $ 10.80 | |
 Vitacost | $ 15.79 | |
| Daily Vita | $ 16.20 | |
 iHerb | $ 17.15 | |
 Amazon | $ 17.15 | |
 Walmart | $ 20.54 |
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 |
|---|---|
Calcium | 1 Gram(s) |
Magnesium | 500 mg |
Gluten Free Adults 18–50 Vegan Kosher Dairy Free Vegetarian
Report overviewCategories
Magnesium 85.0
Magnesium citrate is a widely recommended and effective form of magnesium, offering good absorption and broad benefits.
Goals
General Health 85.0
Magnesium citrate is a well-absorbed form that supports numerous bodily functions vital for overall health.
Stress Relief 85.0
Magnesium citrate helps relax muscles and the nervous system, contributing effectively to stress reduction.
Bone Health 85.0
Magnesium is vital for bone density and calcium absorption, and citrate contributes effectively to these processes.
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