NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate Softgels
Do you prefer not to swallow a large, dry magnesium tablet? Then these magnesium citrate softgels are a pleasant alternative. Three softgels provide 400 mg of elemental magnesium from four combined forms: citrate, glycinate, malate, and oxide, dissolved in an oil base. This corresponds to 107% of the daily reference intake. The jar contains 180 softgels, providing 60 days of use.
Why combine four forms of magnesium
Most magnesium supplements opt for a single form. These softgels deliberately combine four, as each form has its own characteristics. Citrate dissolves well and is well absorbed. Glycinate, magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine, is known to be gentle on the stomach and intestines. Malate is bound to malic acid, a compound your body knows from energy metabolism. Oxide provides a lot of magnesium per gram. Together, they form a broader profile than a single-form product, distributing characteristics in terms of absorption and tolerance. Magnesium contributes, among other things, to normal energy metabolism and the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Softgel with oil base, the difference from a tablet
The four forms are incorporated into liquid rice bran oil within a softgel. NOW Foods states that this liquid release promotes absorption. The practical difference is especially noticeable when swallowing: a smooth softgel glides down more easily than a large, compressed magnesium tablet. These magnesium citrate softgels are therefore the logical choice if you struggle with large tablets. Per daily dose of 3 softgels, they provide approximately 20 kcal and 2 grams of fat, a negligible amount as part of a normal diet.
How to use the softgels in practice
Take 3 softgels daily, preferably spread throughout meals, for example, one at breakfast, one at lunch, and one at dinner. A spread intake promotes steady absorption and limits the risk of a slightly laxative effect that magnesium can cause at high doses. Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function and the reduction of fatigue, and this form makes daily intake a little easier.
Important to know, not vegan
The softgel casing is made from bovine gelatin (BSE-free). These softgels are therefore not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. If you want a fully plant-based alternative from the same brand, opt for NOW Foods' Magnesium Citrate tablets or pure Magnesium Citrate powder. For those who have no objection to gelatin, these softgels offer the broadest magnesium profile in the range. Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, or sesame. The combination of four forms in an oil base makes these softgels one of the easiest ways to get your daily magnesium. You don't have to measure or dissolve anything; you simply take three softgels spread throughout your meals. For those who prioritize consistency over the lowest daily price, this is appreciated. Please note that natural color variation and slight oil separation are normal and do not affect quality in any way.