In a study in 28 people with a rare condition that required high doses of magnesium daily, those who took a slow-release tablet of magnesium lactate had fewer digestive side effects than the control group ( 12).Ī few small studies likewise reveal that this form may help treat stress and anxiety, but more research is needed ( 13). This is particularly significant for people who need to take large doses of magnesium regularly or don’t easily tolerate other forms. Magnesium lactate is easily absorbed and may be a little gentler on your digestive system than other types. It’s less popular as an over-the-counter dietary supplement. Indeed, magnesium lactate is utilized as a food additive to regulate acidity and fortify foods and beverages. This acid is not only produced by your muscle and blood cells but also manufactured for use as a preservative and flavoring agent ( 11). Magnesium lactate is the salt formed when magnesium binds with lactic acid. It’s mainly used to raise magnesium levels and treat constipation. Magnesium citrate is one of the most popular types of magnesium supplements and easily absorbed by your body. What’s more, it’s occasionally marketed as a calming agent to help relieve symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, but more research is needed on these uses ( 5). Due to its natural laxative effect, it’s also sometimes used at higher doses to treat constipation. It’s typically taken orally to replenish low magnesium levels. Some research suggests that this type is among the most bioavailable forms of magnesium, meaning that it’s more easily absorbed in your digestive tract than other forms ( 4). Magnesium citrate is one of the most common magnesium formulations and can be easily purchased online or in stores worldwide. Artificially produced citric acid is often used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in the food industry ( 3).
This acid is found naturally in citrus fruits and gives them their tart, sour flavor. Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium that’s bound with citric acid.