05.30.12
Magnesium supplements are among the most popular dietary supplements in the U.S. ConsumerLab.com recently tested and reviewed many popular brands of magnesium supplements magnesium supplements and published a new report to help consumers identify the best and worst products.
Among the noteworthy findings was one product that was found to contain only 45.1% of its listed magnesium despite boasting a "GMP" (Good Manufacturing Practices) seal on its label. Another violated a FDA labeling rule by displaying a heart symbol although there is no approved heart health claim for magnesium. Several other supplements contained their listed amounts of magnesium, were free of lead contamination, and, if tablets, were able to properly break apart.
ConsumerLab.com found the cost to obtain an equal amount of magnesium from supplements ranged from as little as two cents to over $1.30. However, spending a little more than the lowest price may be worthwhile to get a form of magnesium that is better absorbed and less likely to cause diarrhea. Forms covered in the Review are magnesium aspartate and orotate, magnesium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium lactate and lactate dehydrate, and magnesium oxide. ConsumerLab.com evaluated magnesium supplements sold as tablets (including caplets and enteric and time-release pills), capsules (including softgels), powders, liquids, as well as calcium-magnesium supplements.
Magnesium supplements are commonly used to help treat and prevent magnesium deficiency – which elevates blood pressure and increases the risk of osteoporosis. Deficiency can result from many causes including the extended use of proton-pump inhibitors, such as Nexium and Prilosec. Magnesium supplements can also help prevent migraine headaches, menstrual pain, and improve insulin sensitivity. Sales of magnesium supplements reached $430 million in 2011, up 14% from the prior year and up 79% from 2006, according to Nutrition Business Journal.
To view a copy of the report, follow this link.
Among the noteworthy findings was one product that was found to contain only 45.1% of its listed magnesium despite boasting a "GMP" (Good Manufacturing Practices) seal on its label. Another violated a FDA labeling rule by displaying a heart symbol although there is no approved heart health claim for magnesium. Several other supplements contained their listed amounts of magnesium, were free of lead contamination, and, if tablets, were able to properly break apart.
ConsumerLab.com found the cost to obtain an equal amount of magnesium from supplements ranged from as little as two cents to over $1.30. However, spending a little more than the lowest price may be worthwhile to get a form of magnesium that is better absorbed and less likely to cause diarrhea. Forms covered in the Review are magnesium aspartate and orotate, magnesium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium lactate and lactate dehydrate, and magnesium oxide. ConsumerLab.com evaluated magnesium supplements sold as tablets (including caplets and enteric and time-release pills), capsules (including softgels), powders, liquids, as well as calcium-magnesium supplements.
Magnesium supplements are commonly used to help treat and prevent magnesium deficiency – which elevates blood pressure and increases the risk of osteoporosis. Deficiency can result from many causes including the extended use of proton-pump inhibitors, such as Nexium and Prilosec. Magnesium supplements can also help prevent migraine headaches, menstrual pain, and improve insulin sensitivity. Sales of magnesium supplements reached $430 million in 2011, up 14% from the prior year and up 79% from 2006, according to Nutrition Business Journal.
To view a copy of the report, follow this link.