Magnesium citrate is a combination of the element magnesium and citric acid, which is formed by combining magnesium oxide with citric acid. This reaction creates magnesium citrate and water, which is easily soluble in water and can be used in powder, capsule or liquid form. Magnesium citrate is an osmotic laxative that can be purchased without a prescription at a pharmacy. Magnesium citrate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium, meaning that the body is able to absorb a much larger amount than with most other magnesium supplements. It is sometimes referred to as a “saline laxative” because it works effectively to relieve constipation and cleanse the intestines, thanks to its ability to increase water and fluids in the small intestine.
However, it has many other uses beyond treating occasional constipation. Magnesium citrate can be used as a nutritional supplement to prevent magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is an essential mineral that the body needs to function properly, and it is involved in hundreds of different bodily functions. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, sleep problems, aches, spasms, headaches, and changes in blood pressure. Taking magnesium citrate can help improve relaxation and increase the quality of sleep. Magnesium citrate can also be used to prevent kidney problems.
Calcium and magnesium work together to balance each other, and magnesium can decrease calcium buildup, contributing to good kidney health. Natural Vitality Calm powders contain magnesium carbonate along with citric acid; this forms a magnesium citrate solution when combined with water. When taking magnesium supplements during pregnancy or giving it to your child, it is recommended that you consult your doctor first, although both are usually safe and may be beneficial. If you take a magnesium supplement every day, it is important that your body can easily assimilate and use the magnesium compound in order to get all the health-promoting benefits. The upper limit of tolerance (UTL) for magnesium in supplement form for adults is 350 mg of elemental magnesium per day, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Magnesium citrate works best on an empty stomach and should always be followed by a full glass of water or juice (eight ounces or 250 ml) to help the magnesium citrate be absorbed properly and help prevent any complications.
