Magnesium 500 mg
Sundown
Magnesium 500 mg
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(30035 ratings)
Magnesium 500 mg
Score 60.0
A very affordable high-dose magnesium supplement, but its reliance on poorly absorbed Magnesium Oxide limits its efficacy for systemic health benefits, making it more suitable for digestive regularity.
Quantity: 180 Tablet(s)Servings size: 1 Caplet(s) (180 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Stress Relief
Mood Support
Bone Health
Sleep Support
General Health
leaderboard Score 60.0
A very affordable high-dose magnesium supplement, but its reliance on poorly absorbed Magnesium Oxide limits its efficacy for systemic health benefits, making it more suitable for digestive regularity.
insights Analysis
Sundown's Magnesium 500 mg is attractive due to its low price and high dosage. However, the exclusive use of magnesium oxide significantly impacts its overall utility. Magnesium oxide contains a high percentage of elemental magnesium by weight, but its absorption rate in the body is notoriously low (estimated around 4%). This means that while you're taking 500mg, only a small fraction is likely to be utilized for systemic functions like energy production, muscle relaxation, or nerve function. It excels as an osmotic laxative, which is reflected in many online reviews. For comprehensive magnesium supplementation, more bioavailable forms are typically recommended.
- Extremely low price per serving.
- High elemental magnesium content per dose.
- Very popular, indicated by high review count.
- Effective for constipation relief.
- Magnesium Oxide has poor systemic bioavailability.
- Not ideal for achieving broader health benefits beyond laxative effect.
- May cause digestive upset (diarrhea) in higher doses due to laxative effect.
- Not the best choice if your primary goal is systemic magnesium absorption for energy, mood, etc.
$7.87($0.04 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 0.00 | |
 iHerb | $ 7.87 | |
 Vitacost | $ 8.69 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
The effectiveness of magnesium can vary by its specific form due to differences in bioavailability and targeted uses. For instance, magnesium L-threonate is researched for cognitive support due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium citrate is often chosen for digestive regularity, while magnesium glycinate is frequently used for relaxation benefits and high absorption.
Magnesium contributes to the regulation of neurotransmitters and hormones involved in the sleep cycle. Studies indicate that magnesium supplementation may help improve sleep quality, especially in older adults or those with restless leg syndrome. It is often sought for its calming properties that can support relaxation.
Magnesium plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and sleep. Some studies indicate that magnesium supplementation may improve sleep quality, especially in older adults or those with insomnia symptoms, by helping to calm the nervous system. More research is needed to fully understand its effects across different populations.
Magnesium contributes to the relaxation of blood vessels and may help regulate blood pressure. Some studies have shown a modest reduction in blood pressure, especially in individuals with hypertension or at risk for it, with magnesium supplementation. The effect can vary based on individual health status and existing conditions.
Magnesium plays a vital role in muscle contraction and relaxation. Some research suggests that magnesium supplementation may help reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle cramps, particularly in individuals experiencing magnesium deficiency. It is a commonly explored option for this purpose.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and sex, generally ranging from 310-420 mg for adult men and 310-320 mg for adult women. These recommendations are for dietary intake from food and supplements combined. It is important to consult current health guidelines for specific age and life stages.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adult men is 400-420 mg per day, and for adult women, it is 310-320 mg per day. These recommendations can vary slightly based on age and life stage. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Common forms include magnesium citrate, oxide, glycinate, and L-threonate. Magnesium citrate is often used for bowel regularity, while magnesium oxide has lower bioavailability but is a common, inexpensive form. Magnesium glycinate is typically well-absorbed and gentle on the stomach, and magnesium L-threonate is studied for its potential to cross the blood-brain barrier.
Excessive intake of magnesium from supplements, but not from food, can lead to side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. In very high doses, it can cause more serious issues such as low blood pressure, muscle weakness, and irregular heartbeat. The tolerable upper intake level for supplemental magnesium is 350 mg per day for adults.
For healthy adults, the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for supplemental magnesium is 350 mg per day. This UL specifically applies to magnesium from supplements and medications, not from food or water. Exceeding this limit regularly may lead to adverse effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, magnesium supplements can interact with several types of medications. These include certain antibiotics (tetracyclines and quinolones), diuretics, proton pump inhibitors, and bisphosphonates. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional about potential interactions when taking medications.
Common side effects often involve the digestive system, such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. These effects are typically mild and more likely with higher doses or certain forms like magnesium citrate. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help mitigate these symptoms.
Common side effects, especially with higher doses, can include diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. These effects are often dose-dependent and may be mitigated by reducing the amount taken. Different forms of magnesium can also influence gastrointestinal tolerance.
While rare from food sources alone, excessive intake from supplements can lead to hypermagnesemia, particularly in individuals with impaired kidney function. Symptoms may include low blood pressure, lethargy, muscle weakness, and an irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
Individuals with impaired kidney function should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before taking magnesium supplements. Kidneys are responsible for excreting excess magnesium, and compromised function can lead to an accumulation of magnesium in the body. This accumulation can result in hypermagnesemia, which is potentially dangerous.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Magnesium (Magnesium Oxide) | 500 mg |
Categories
Magnesium 60.0
Though incredibly cheap and high-dose, the exclusive use of magnesium oxide significantly limits its systemic absorption, making it primarily useful for laxative effects rather than comprehensive magnesium support.
Goals
General Health 50.0
Limited systemic absorption of magnesium oxide means it contributes minimally to overall general health beyond digestive regularity.
Energy 40.0
Due to poor absorption, the magnesium oxide is unlikely to significantly support cellular ATP production needed for energy.
Stress Relief 40.0
Systemic absorption is crucial for magnesium's role in stress management; magnesium oxide is poorly suited for this.
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