Magnesium is the second most prevalent nutritional deficiency in developed countries, behind vitamin D, because few of us get enough magnesium-rich foods in our diets. Great food sources include legumes, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.

Magnesium plays an important role in maintaining overall health, and a deficiency does not typically present obvious symptoms. People who are at the highest risk for deficiency include those with gastrointestinal issues.

Emerging studies show that magnesium can also support healthy blood pressure, may reduce the risk of insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, and also promote bone density for healthy bones.

Superior bioavailability and absorption

We use a form of magnesium known as bisglycinate chelate, buffered with a small amount of oxide. Bisglycinate chelate is made with glycinate, an amino acid, and has been shown to be significantly better absorbed than the most common form, magnesium oxide, which is the most common type used in supplements and laxatives.

It's a fine line to walk between using the most optimal forms but also providing enough elemental magnesium to meet the recommended daily intakes, about 320 mg for women and 400 mg for men. We use a small amount of oxide to buffer the bisglycinate chelate. This allows us to provide 400 mg of elemental magnesium in a reasonable dose at a fair price.

Nightcap

The best time to take magnesium is at night, as it helps our muscles relax and get ready for a restful night's sleep. Minerals tend to compete with each other for absorption in the body, so don't take it with other minerals in the daytime.