Understanding the Difference Between the Different Types of Magnesium Supplements

Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, but many people still do not consume enough whole, unprocessed foods to reach their recommended daily value of magnesium. Since many people do not get enough of this essential mineral in their diet, they may need to get it by taking a magnesium supplement. However, since there are many different types of magnesium supplements, many people do not know which type of magnesium supplement they should take. The different types of magnesium supplements include magnesium sulfate, magnesium citrate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium oxide, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium lactate.

Importance of Magnesium

Magnesium is the fourth most plentiful mineral in the body and is necessary for the health of every organ in the body. Magnesium is particularly important for the healthy function of the heart, muscles, and kidneys. This essential mineral assists in energy production and aids in regulating many mineral and vitamin levels in the body, such as potassium, vitamin D, zinc, calcium, and copper.

Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium citrate is a type of magnesium used most often in the treatment of diarrhea. It can also be used prior to certain stomach procedures to help clear the bowel. This type of magnesium is taken as an oral supplement and should only be taken short-term.

Magnesium Gluconate

Magnesium gluconate is a type of magnesium used most often to correct a magnesium deficiency. It can also be used to help maintain healthy levels of magnesium in the body. However, it can be used in the treatment of certain other medical conditions as determined by a doctor. This type of magnesium is taken as an oral supplement and can be taken long-term.

Magnesium Lactate

Magnesium lactate is a type of magnesium that is also used to correct a magnesium deficiency. It can also be used to treat certain medical conditions, such as heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach. This type of magnesium can be taken as an oral supplement or it can be injected under the supervision of a nurse or doctor. The injectable form is used when correcting a magnesium deficiency. Both forms can be taken for as long as they are needed.

Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium oxide is a type of magnesium most often used to help maintain healthy levels of magnesium in the body. However, it can be used in the treatment of certain other medical conditions as determined by a doctor. This type of magnesium can be taken for long periods of time by most people and is taken as an oral supplement.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide is a type of magnesium that is most often used as an antacid or as a laxative. When it is used as a laxative, it should only be used to alleviate constipation occasionally. It should only be used occasionally as an antacid as well to alleviate indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn. This type of magnesium is taken as an oral supplement and should only be used short-term.

Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium sulfate is a type of magnesium supplement most commonly used in multivitamins. When magnesium sulfate is administered in high doses, it can be used to help treat convulsions, a magnesium deficiency, childhood acute kidney inflammation, and pre-eclampsia in pregnant women. This type of magnesium can be taken as an oral supplement or it can be injected. It is taken short-term for certain conditions and it is taken on a long-term basis for other conditions.

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