Magnesium L-threonate is a form of the essential mineral magnesium, which is the magnesium salt of threonic acid. It is the most common of these salts, and is the magnesium salt of the L-isomer of threonic acid. This innovative form of magnesium was developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and is particularly effective in increasing magnesium levels in the brain when taken orally. L-threonate is a metabolite of ascorbic acid, and supplies magnesium to the brain, as it contains a fractional amount of magnesium.
Different research studies have indicated that magnesium L-threonate can improve cognitive abilities, memory, and reverse brain aging. It is also known as “brain magnesium”, as it is highly absorbable and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium L-threonate makes magnesium supplements more bioavailable and stable. It is recommended to take 2000 mg of magnesium L-threonate, which normally provides 144 mg of magnesium.
Animal research results suggest that magnesium l-threonate might be particularly useful for anxiety disorders, such as phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder, but human studies are needed. A study used magnesium L-threonate to prevent and restore short-term memory loss associated with neuropathic pain. Aluminum decreases magnesium absorption by five times, in addition to causing a 41% decrease in magnesium retention. Magnesium chloride is easily absorbed by mouth and is used to treat heartburn, constipation, and low magnesium levels.
If you're a smoothie lover, you can make it richer in nutrients by adding a tablespoon of magnesium L-threonate to your protein shake and sprinkling some cinnamon for a pinch of antioxidants. There are dozens of magnesium L-threonate products on the market and there are several factors to consider before selecting the right brand. A common side effect of taking magnesium is watery stools; however, this usually occurs when magnesium is taken in doses greater than 1000 mg. Research has indicated that magnesium L-threonate is one of the only forms of magnesium that reaches and enters the brain efficiently at significant levels. This is a significant finding, as it indicates that magnesium L-threonate may be especially effective in raising magnesium levels in the brain. The same study also reported that magnesium glycinate helped raise blood potassium levels in physically active young people, which means that magnesium actively retains and distributes potassium in the body.
