Magnesium glycinate and bisglycinate – is there a difference? Magnesium glycinate and magnesium bisglycinate, frequently used interchangeably, refer to the same compound. This is due to their description of a form of magnesium linked to the amino acid glycine.
Glycine is known for its calming effects and various physiological processes in the body use glycine. When magnesium links to glycine, it forms magnesium glycinate or magnesium bisglycinate.
This compound is highly bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb it more easily.
What are the benefits of magnesium glycinate / bisglycinate?
- It tends to be well tolerated and less likely to cause digestive discomfort compared to some other forms of magnesium, such as magnesium oxide, making it mild to the stomach.
- High Absorption Rate: The chelation with glycine enhances the absorption of magnesium in the intestines, allowing for better utilization by the body.
- Magnesium glycinate/bisglycinate typically presents a reduced laxative effect compared to certain other magnesium compounds known for causing diarrhea or gastrointestinal disorders. This makes it suitable for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
What is magnesium bisglycinate/glycinate for?
It acts on energy production. Magnesium supplementation particularly benefits multiple body systems, especially muscles and nerves, by serving as a cofactor in over 300 metabolic reactions.
Research has demonstrated that magnesium glycinate provides a range of benefits, including aiding:
- Relieve anxiety
- Promote bone health
- Control blood sugar in people with diabetes and may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Maintain normal heart rhythms
- Reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Improve the performance of exercise
Some health problems that may improve with magnesium supplementation, including:
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Risk of stroke
- Heart failure
- Diabetes
Conclusion:
Magnesium glycinate and magnesium bisglycinate represent the same compound—magnesium chelated with glycine—despite their frequent interchangeable use.
Many individuals prefer this form of magnesium due to its bioavailability and minimal gastrointestinal side effects when supplementing their magnesium intake.
To explore more comprehensive information about magnesium, including its 11 types and indications, refer to the article: Magnesium — what is it used for and how Many types are there?
