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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.

Essential Mineral

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 It Works

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.

What's inside

Key Ingredients

Magnesium β€” 250 mg
The cornerstone of this formula, Magnesium is an essential cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems. Research suggests it supports bone density β€” observational data from large cohort studies found higher Magnesium intake associated with 2–3% greater bone density in women. It is fundamental to nervous system function, acting as a natural NMDA receptor antagonist that modulates synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability. A 2024 systematic review in the Journal of Translational Medicine found Magnesium supplementation reduced muscle soreness and supported recovery in physically active individuals. Magnesium is also required for ATP synthesis, electrolyte transport via sodium-potassium ATPase, and inflammatory balance β€” a 2022 meta-analysis of 17 RCTs showed that supplementation significantly decreased serum C-reactive protein levels.
Calcium β€” 40 mg
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, with more than 99% stored in bone as hydroxyapatite. It is the primary mineral constituent of bone and the most extensively studied supplement for bone density. Research suggests that Calcium supplementation significantly improves bone mineral density, particularly in people under 35 building peak bone mass. Calcium is also essential for muscle contraction and relaxation β€” hypocalcemia is recognized as a cause of muscle cramps, tetany, and spasms. In the nervous system, Calcium ions serve as a universal second messenger for neurotransmission, stabilizing membrane potential and controlling the excitability of neurons. Calcium and Magnesium are nutritional partners and work best when taken together.
Phosphorus β€” 30 mg
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the human body, with approximately 85% residing in bones and teeth where it forms hydroxyapatite alongside Calcium for structural integrity. It is a building block of DNA, RNA, and ATP β€” the body's major source of energy. Phosphorus-containing phospholipids constitute the structural matrix of neuronal membranes and regulate synaptic neurotransmission, supporting nervous system health. It also regulates the normal function of nerves and muscles, including the heart. The Phosphorus-containing molecule 2,3-diphosphoglycerate binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells and helps regulate oxygen delivery to the tissues.
Kelp leaf and stem
Kelp is a brown seaweed rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly iodine, and has been used traditionally for over a thousand years in Asian cultures. It provides a natural source of trace minerals including potassium, Calcium, iron, and Magnesium. Kelp has been traditionally used for its mineral-rich profile to support general nutritional needs. It also contains polysaccharides such as alginates, laminarin, and fucoidan, which have been studied for their biological activities in preclinical research.
Licorice root
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used worldwide as a medicine for over 4,000 years. It has traditionally been used in herbal medicine to support gastrointestinal comfort, respiratory health, and overall well-being. Licorice appears in approximately 60% of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions. The German Commission E approves the use of licorice for catarrhal conditions of the upper respiratory tract. In this formula, Licorice root serves as part of the herbal base supporting the mineral blend.
Peppermint leaves
Peppermint (Mentha Γ— piperita) has been used as a remedy for indigestion since ancient Egyptian times, with dried leaves found in pyramids dating back to 1000 B.C. The German Commission E approved Peppermint leaf for spastic complaints of the gastrointestinal tract. Its primary constituent, menthol, supports smooth muscle relaxation through Calcium channel blockade. In this formula, Peppermint leaves contribute to the herbal base and traditionally support digestive comfort.
White willow bark
White willow bark (Salix alba) has a history of traditional use spanning more than 3,500 years, from Sumerians and Egyptians through Hippocrates, who reportedly prescribed it for pain relief. The European Medicines Agency recognizes willow bark preparations under a traditional-use framework. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, willow bark was used to 'cool' the body and support comfort. In this formula, White willow bark contributes to the herbal base alongside the mineral blend.
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Who Benefits

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 10–20%, 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.

Directions

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.

About the author

Written by Greg Howlett

GH

Greg Howlett

Founder

Greg has spent over a decade helping customers choose the right natural-health products. He personally vets every formula we carry and writes these guides to cut through the marketing noise with practical, experience-based advice.

FAQ

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.

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Magnesium Supplements | Benefits & Guide