The main difference between magnesium malate and citrate is that magnesium malate is a compound consisting of magnesium bound to malic acid, whereas magnesium citrate is a compound consisting of magnesium bound to citric acid.
Magnesium plays a pivotal role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. This essential nutrient is involved in over 300 biochemical processes within our bodies, supporting functions ranging from muscle contractions and nerve transmission to bone health and immune system regulation. However, magnesium deficiency is a prevalent concern today despite its crucial role. Magnesium deficiency can lead to various side effects, including muscle cramps, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, nausea, abnormal nerve function, mood changes, insomnia, migraines, and muscle weakness. Therefore, many individuals use magnesium supplements to bridge this nutritional gap. Magnesium malate and citrate are two notable forms of magnesium supplements.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Magnesium Malate
– Definition, Features
2. What is Magnesium Citrate
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Magnesium Malate and Citrate
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Magnesium Malate and Citrate
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Magnesium Malate, Magnesium Citrate
What is Magnesium Malate
Magnesium malate is a compound that consists of magnesium bound to malic acid. This combination results in a magnesium supplement that provides both magnesium and malic acid. Malic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in fruits, particularly apples.
Malic acid, a component of magnesium malate, is an integral part of the Krebs cycle, which is responsible for generating energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) within cells. Magnesium is also involved in ATP synthesis. Therefore, magnesium malate is often promoted for its potential to support energy production in the body. Some individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome may consider magnesium malate for its possible role in boosting energy levels.
Figure 1: Magnesium Malate
Both magnesium and malic acid offer various health benefits to the body and help to prevent medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, asthma, fibromyalgia, hypertension, as well as certain pregnancy-related issues.
What is Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is a popular form of magnesium supplement known for its bioavailability and potential laxative effects. Magnesium citrate is renowned for its excellent bioavailability, which means that a significant portion of the magnesium it contains is effectively absorbed by the body when ingested. This high absorption rate makes it an attractive choice for addressing magnesium deficiencies.
Figure 2: Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is notable for its potential laxative effect. When taken in higher doses, it draws water into the intestines, softens the stool, and promotes bowel movements. This makes it a common over-the-counter remedy for occasional constipation.
Magnesium citrate is highly soluble in water, making it easy to prepare as a liquid supplement. It is also available in tablet or capsule forms for those who prefer non-liquid options.
Similarities Between Magnesium Malate and Citrate
- Both types of supplements can deliver magnesium to the body.
- Both forms of magnesium, malate and citrate, have relatively good bioavailability.
Difference Between Magnesium Malate and Citrate
Definition
Magnesium malate is a compound formed by combining magnesium with malic acid, whereas magnesium citrate is a compound formed by combining magnesium with citric acid.
Formation
Magnesium malate is a compound of magnesium bound to malic acid, but magnesium citrate is a compound of magnesium bound to citric acid.
Properties
While magnesium malate is generally well-absorbed, it may not have the same laxative effect as magnesium citrate. Magnesium citrate is known for its relatively high bioavailability and effectiveness as a laxative.
Conclusion
Magnesium malate and citrate are two notable forms of magnesium supplements. The main difference between magnesium malate and citrate is that magnesium malate is a compound consisting of magnesium bound to malic acid, whereas magnesium citrate is a compound consisting of magnesium bound to citric acid.
Reference:
1. “Magnesium Citrate: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving…” WebMD.
2. “Magnesium Malate: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage.” Health Line.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Magnesium malate” By Edgar181 (talk) – Own work (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Magnesiumhydrogencitrat V1” By Nossy123 – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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