Magnesium Supplements | Benefits & Guide
Discover how Magnesium supplements support nervous system health, bone density, and muscle relaxation. Learn about key ingredients and how to take them.
What Magnesium Supplements Are and Why They Matter
Magnesium is the fourth most abundant cation in the human body and a critical cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate diverse biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. It is found in the bones, soft tissues, and blood, where it helps metabolize various nutrients such as vitamin C, Phosphorus, potassium, and sodium.
Despite its importance, emerging evidence confirms that nearly two-thirds of the population in the Western world is not achieving the recommended daily allowance for Magnesium β a deficiency problem contributing to various health conditions. Men older than 70 and teenage girls are among those most likely to have low intakes.
Nature's Sunshine Magnesium provides nervous system support and assists in a variety of bodily functions. Each tablet delivers 250 mg of Magnesium from Magnesium oxide and Magnesium amino acid chelate in a base of Licorice root, Kelp plant, Peppermint leaves, and White willow bark. Calcium and Magnesium are nutritional partners and work best when taken together, and this formula also includes 40 mg of Calcium and 30 mg of Phosphorus to round out its mineral profile.
If you're unsure whether Magnesium supplements are right for your daily routine, our naturopath is available for a free consultation to help you explore your individual needs.
How Magnesium Supports Your Body
Magnesium is required for energy production, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolysis β processes that fuel every cell in your body. It plays a pivotal role in ATP synthesis, the molecule your body uses to store and transfer energy, making it indispensable for cellular energy generation across virtually all tissues.
In the nervous system, Magnesium modulates neuronal excitability through voltage-gated Calcium antagonism and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blockade. This natural regulatory role supports normal nerve signaling and neuromuscular transmission.
Magnesium is also involved in bone formation and influences the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. It affects the concentrations of both parathyroid hormone and the active form of vitamin D, which are major regulators of bone homeostasis. Research suggests that people with higher levels of Magnesium may have higher bone mineral density, which is important in helping reduce the risk of bone fractures.
For muscle function, Magnesium deficiency can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, and weakness. The mineral regulates muscle contraction via intracellular Calcium transport, and studies suggest that supplementation may reduce muscle soreness, support performance and recovery, and exert a protective effect on muscle damage in physically active individuals.
Key Ingredients

- β Free shipping over $75
- β 90-day easy returns
- β Ships within hours
Who May Benefit from Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium supplements may be worth considering for a wide range of people. Certain groups are more likely than others to have Magnesium inadequacy, including older adults (due to decreased absorption), individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, those with type 2 diabetes, people with alcohol dependence, and individuals on certain long-term medications such as diuretics and proton pump inhibitors.
Active individuals may also want to pay attention to their Magnesium intake. Exercise may increase Magnesium requirements by 10β20%, and studies suggest that Magnesium supplementation may reduce muscle soreness and support recovery after physical activity.
People concerned about bone health may find Magnesium supplements particularly relevant. Research suggests that Magnesium is essential for vitamin D activation and Calcium metabolism, and low Magnesium is associated with increased osteoporosis risk. This formula pairs Magnesium with Calcium and Phosphorus β all three minerals that play a role in maintaining bone integrity.
Early signs and symptoms of Magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. As deficiency worsens, numbness, tingling, muscle contractions and cramps, and abnormal heart rhythms can occur. If any of these sound familiar, consider reaching out to our naturopath for a free consultation to discuss whether Magnesium supplements might be a good fit for you.
How to Take This Magnesium Supplement
Take 1 tablet daily with a meal.
Each bottle contains 180 tablets, providing a generous six-month supply at the recommended serving. Taking your Magnesium supplement with food supports absorption and helps minimize any potential digestive discomfort.
It's worth noting that Calcium and Magnesium are nutritional partners and work best when taken together. This formula conveniently includes both minerals in a single tablet, along with Phosphorus and a supportive herbal base.
Written by Greg Howlett
Frequently asked questions
Why are Magnesium supplements important?
Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate diverse biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. It is estimated that between 56% and 68% of Americans do not obtain enough Magnesium in their diet to meet the recommended daily allowance, making supplementation a practical way to help bridge that gap.
What forms of Magnesium are in this product?
Nature's Sunshine Magnesium contains Magnesium oxide and Magnesium amino acid chelate. Magnesium oxide is the most concentrated form by weight, while chelated forms (Magnesium bound to amino acids) are generally considered more soluble and may offer higher bioavailability.
Can Magnesium supplements help with muscle cramps?
Magnesium deficiency impairs muscle relaxation β muscles contract normally but may struggle to fully release when levels are low. Magnesium is the most studied mineral supplement for skeletal muscle cramps, though Cochrane reviews note that evidence for idiopathic cramps in older adults is mixed. Maintaining adequate Magnesium intake supports normal muscle function.
Does Magnesium support bone health?
Yes. Magnesium is involved in bone formation and influences the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. It also affects concentrations of parathyroid hormone and the active form of vitamin D, which are major regulators of bone homeostasis. Research suggests that people with higher Magnesium intake may have higher bone mineral density, though further studies are needed to fully define its role in osteoporosis management.
Are there any side effects from Magnesium supplements?
Magnesium supplements can cause softening of stool, nausea, or cramping in some people, particularly at higher doses. Side effects are more common with inorganic forms such as Magnesium oxide. Extra Magnesium from food is generally safe because the kidneys efficiently excrete excess amounts. Individuals with impaired kidney function should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing.
Can Magnesium interact with medications?
Yes. Magnesium may interact with certain medications including bisphosphonates, tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics, some diuretics, proton pump inhibitors, and gabapentin. For example, Magnesium can form insoluble complexes with tetracyclines and should be separated by at least 2 hours. If you take prescription medications, talk to your healthcare provider or our naturopath before starting Magnesium supplements.
Talk to Dr. Shannyn Fowl
Not sure if this is right for you? Book a free, no-pressure consultation for personalized guidance on your health goals.
Book your free consult βAbout Caring Sunshine
A family-run reseller of premium supplements β free shipping, a 90-day guarantee, and real people who know the products.
Learn more about us β