Magnesium

A mineral the body needs for muscle and nerve function, blood sugar and blood pressure regulation, and building bone and protein.

Supplement

What it is

Magnesium is a nutrient the body needs to stay healthy. It's important for many processes, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure, and making protein, bone, and DNA. Forms of magnesium in dietary supplements that are more easily absorbed by the body include magnesium aspartate, magnesium citrate, magnesium lactate, and magnesium chloride. Magnesium is also an ingredient in some laxatives and heartburn/indigestion products.

Food and timing considerations

Food sources of magnesium include legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, fortified breakfast cereals, and milk products such as yogurt.

Known interaction categories

Insufficient evidence
Monitor
Use caution

Published interaction pages on this site

Sources

Magnesium — Consumer — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements

Last reviewed 2026-08-22

Medical information disclaimer: this information is general and educational. It does not diagnose conditions, prescribe treatment, or determine whether a combination is safe for you personally. Follow your prescription label and ask a pharmacist or clinician before starting, stopping, or combining products. Full disclaimer.