Details:

What is Magnesium Glycinate 

Magnesium is a vital mineral that is used in many biological processes. For example, it is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems! It is also one of the most common minerals that people are deficient in so it is important to take a good Magnesium supplement. This is not the easiest thing to find though as Magnesium supplements are plagued by bad absorption and there are a few different reasons for this. The main cause is magnesium's physical properties. Most of the Magnesium that we ingest is absorbed in our small intestines through small spaces called tight junctions. Absorption through tight junctions is dependent largely on the size of the compound, its solubility, and its pH. These three issues all make it very hard for Magnesium to be absorbed.

Function:

The benefits of taking a Magnesium Glycinate supplement is where Glycine comes in as Glycine is an excellent pH buffer. By chelating Magnesium with Glycine, the rise in pH at tight junctions is largely negated, leading to significantly better Magnesium absorption. The Glycine in theory can also decrease the size of the Magnesium hydration shell and in addition to this, may allow Magnesium to be transported through amino acid transport systems. Magnesium is also fairly reactive and can react with Phytates that are present in our diet. Magnesium that has reacted with Phytates is practically impossible to absorb and this is highly problematic because Phytates are fairly prevalent in foods that contain large amounts of Magnesium, such as almonds and spinach. Chelating Magnesium with Glycinate, appears to reduce the reactivity of Magnesium with Phytates, thus enhancing its bioavailability even when it is taken alongside food. 

The final benefit of Magnesium Glycinate, is that it can increase the likelihood of L-Glycine making it to the brain. This is interesting, because L-Glycine may support sleep quality and so can Magnesium itself. Thus, Magnesium Glycinate is arguably the best form of Magnesium when it comes to supporting sleep quality.

Application:

Magnesium glycinate has shown potential in combatting anxiety as magnesium is known to assist with producing the hormone serotonin  in your brain, which may significantly affect feelings of anxiety and happiness.

Apart from its potential to improve mood and enhance sleep, magnesium glycinate may also result in the following positive health impacts:14