The supplement industry is the most popular supplement, and for good reason. This essential mineral is required for hundreds of vital functions in the body and brain yet deficiency is extremely common. While magnesium supplements have traditionally come in forms like oxide and citrate, glycinate is emerging as the revolutionary new player. Magnesium is an abundantly important mineral that participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It’s necessary for energy production, protein synthesis, blood glucose control, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, DNA and RNA synthesis, and more. Magnesium even helps activate vitamin D, which most people are also deficient in.
Despite its unequivocal importance for every cell and organ, surveys estimate that up to 80% of Americans are not getting enough magnesium from their diet. Soil depletion has caused crops to be grown in magnesium-deficient soil. In addition, processed foods are devoid of magnesium while being high in phosphates and calcium which hinder magnesium absorption. Chronic diseases like diabetes and gastrointestinal conditions, stress, alcohol consumption, and certain drugs also deplete magnesium levels. The alarming prevalence of magnesium deficiency makes supplementation advisable for most people.
Magnesium glycinate for brain support
The unique ability of magnesium glycinate to readily cross the blood-brain barrier also makes it an excellent supplement for brain health and cognition. how to choose best magnesium supplement magnesium acts as a gatekeeper for NMDA receptors which control synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Magnesium glycinate easily gets into the brain to activate these receptors. Additionally, glycine is both an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter that’s vital for mental clarity and preventing overstimulation. Supplementing with glycinate further elevates glycine levels in the brain.
- Improve short-term memory, long-term memory, and recall ability
- Enhance concentration, attention span, and focus
- Reduce brain fog and cognitive fatigue
- Protect brain cells and neural pathways from oxidative damage
- Increase levels of calming alpha brain waves
If you want to maximize your brain power and defend against cognitive decline, magnesium glycinate is far superior to other forms. The bound glycine gives it unique nootropic-like qualities for optimal mental performance.
Choosing the best magnesium glycinate
If you’re ready to give magnesium glycinate a try, be sure to select a quality product. Here are tips for finding an effective glycinate supplement:
- Look for products with magnesium bis-glycinate in the ingredients which is the most absorbable form.
- Avoid magnesium glycinate made with oxide, which negates the benefits.
- Get a supplement with 200-400 mg elemental magnesium per serving.
- Capsule form tends to have fewer digestive side effects.
- Look for a brand that does independent lab testing for purity and potency.
- Read reviews online to help determine quality and reputation.
- Avoid cheap generic brands which tend to use inferior ingredients.
The best magnesium glycinate supplements are backed by extensive research showing real results for sleep, stress, cognition, and overall well-being. With so many proven benefits, it’s easy to see why glycinate represents the future of magnesium supplementation.