Magnesium L-threonate is a form of magnesium supplement that combines magnesium with L-threonate, an organic acid that helps increase magnesium levels in the brain. This unique formulation supports healthy brain function and enhances the absorption of magnesium into the central nervous system.
Because of its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, magnesium L-threonate may help improve memory, learning, and overall cognitive performance. It can also help reduce anxiety and stress by regulating neurotransmitters responsible for relaxation and emotional balance.
In addition, magnesium L-threonate may aid in regulating sleep, preventing neurodegenerative diseases, and relieving pain caused by inflammation. It is available in capsule form, but dosage should be individualized and taken under the guidance of a doctor or registered dietitian.
Health benefits
Magnesium L-threonate is primarily studied for its effects on brain health and nervous system function. The benefits of magnesium L-threonate include:
1. Improving cognition and memory
Magnesium L-threonate helps improve cognition and memory because threonic acid crosses the blood-brain barrier to increase the bioavailability of magnesium in the central nervous system.
This supplement helps to regulate N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, which is a glutamate receptor. It is the brain's main excitatory neurotransmitter and optimal functioning is associated with improved memory, learning, and cognitive function.
2. Reducing anxiety and stress
Magnesium L-threonate helps to reduce anxiety and stress by regulating GABA receptors. GABA is a neurotransmitter that has relaxing effects on the nervous system and can promote well-being and tranquility.
3. Regulating sleep
By regulating GABA receptors, magnesium L-threonate has an anxiolytic and calming action that helps to relax the nervous system and regulate sleep patterns.
Magnesium L-threonate also plays a role in the formation of melatonin, a hormone that is also associated with adequate sleep.
Also recommended: How to Fall Asleep Fast: 10 Tips for a Quicker Sleep tuasaude.com/en/how-to-fall-asleep-fast4. Preventing neurodegenerative diseases
Magnesium L-threonate can help prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's because it regulates the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor in the brain. It is beneficial for maintaining the health of neurons and preventing their breakdown.
Furthermore, magnesium L-threonate also decreases inflammation in the brain by inhibiting the activation and action of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
5. Relieving pain
By reducing inflammation and limiting the activity of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α in the central nervous system, magnesium L-threonate may help relieve both chronic and acute pain.
Magnesium L-threonate vs. other types
Magnesium supplements are available in several forms, each with distinct absorption characteristics and physiological effects.
How to take
Magnesium L-threonate should be taken orally with a glass of water.
This supplement is commonly available in capsules providing 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, or 500 mg of magnesium L-threonate. Clinical studies most often use total daily doses between 1,500 mg and 2,000 mg of magnesium L-threonate, which corresponds to approximately 144 to 250 mg of elemental magnesium.
The total daily dose is often divided into two or three smaller doses throughout the day to support consistent absorption and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort. The appropriate dose may vary depending on individual goals, age, and nutritional status and should be determined by a healthcare provider or registered dietitian.
When is the best time to take magnesium L-threonate?
There is no single best time to take magnesium L-threonate. When the goal is cognitive support and mental performance, it is commonly taken in the morning or early afternoon.
When used to support sleep quality, magnesium L-threonate may be taken in the evening, typically one to three hours before bedtime. This supplement can be taken with or without food, although taking it with meals may help prevent stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.
What is Magtein?
Magtein is the patented and clinically studied form of magnesium L-threonate used in nearly all human and animal research on this compound. It was originally developed by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is now manufactured exclusively by ThreoTech, LLC.
Most magnesium L-threonate supplements available on the market contain Magtein because ThreoTech is the sole licensed global supplier of this ingredient. Products that do not specify Magtein on the label are not made using the patented formulation that has been evaluated in clinical studies.
To verify authenticity, supplement labels should clearly state “Magnesium L-threonate (Magtein)” or display the Magtein trademark or logo on the packaging. This confirms that the product contains the same ingredient used in published scientific research.
Possible side effects
Magnesium L-threonate may cause some side effects, such as headache, diarrhea, nausea, cramping, or stomach irritation.
Excessive use of this supplement can cause magnesium poisoning, which may lead to symptoms such as face numbness or tingling, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.
Contraindications for use
Magnesium L-threonate should not be used by people who are allergic to any of its ingredients or by those with kidney problems.
Anyone who regularly takes medications or other supplements should talk to a healthcare provider before using it.