What is Magnesium?

Magnesium is a mineral your body uses every day — quietly working in the background.

Think of it like a helper behind the scenes.
It supports many normal processes that help keep everything running smoothly.

You’ll find magnesium naturally in a wide range of foods, and it’s also available as a supplement.

Why is Magnesium Sometimes Called “The Spark of Life”

Magnesium is sometimes referred to as the “spark of life” 

Not because it gives energy directly —
but because it helps your body release and use energy.

A Simple Way to Think About It

Think of your body like a battery

Food provides the energy…
but magnesium helps unlock and activate that energy so your body can use it.

The Techy Bit (If You’re Curious!)

Magnesium plays a key role in processes involving ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — often described as the body’s “energy currency”.

ATP needs magnesium to become biologically active (often referred to as Mg-ATP).

Magnesium is also involved in:

• Enzyme activity (hundreds of biochemical reactions)
• Normal muscle function
• Normal nervous system function

What Are the Different Types of Magnesium.

Magnesium supplements come in different forms — and this can feel confusing at first.

Think of it like different vehicles carrying magnesium

Each type combines magnesium with another compound, which affects how it behaves in the body.

Magnesium Citrate

• A commonly used form
• Water-soluble
• Generally well absorbed

Often chosen as a general, everyday option

Magnesium Glycinate (Bisglycinate)

• Bound to an amino acid (glycine)
• Designed to be stable and well absorbed
• Typically gentle

Often chosen for ease of use in daily routines

Magnesium Oxide

• High in elemental magnesium
• Less soluble
• Lower bioavailability

Often used where higher magnesium content per dose is needed

Magnesium Malate

• Combined with malic acid (found in fruits)
• Included in many formulations

Magnesium Taurate

• Bound with taurine
• Less commonly used
• Found in more specialised products

Magnesium L-Threonate

• A newer form
• Structurally different
• Often found in specialist supplements

What Does “Elemental Magnesium” Mean

Not all of a supplement is magnesium itself.

Elemental magnesium refers to the actual magnesium content available.

Different forms contain different amounts — which is why labels can vary.

What Does “Bioavailability” Mean

Bioavailability is simply:

How much magnesium your body can absorb and use

This can vary depending on:

• The form of magnesium
• The individual
• Diet and lifestyle

What Foods Are High in Magnesium.

Magnesium is widely available in everyday foods:

Leafy greens

Spinach, kale

Nuts & seeds

Almonds, pumpkin seeds, cashews

Whole grains

Brown rice, oats

Beans & legumes

Lentils, chickpeas

Dark chocolate

(A popular favourite!)

A varied, balanced diet is a simple way to include magnesium naturally.

What Are Some Signs Your Diet Might Be Low in Magnesium

Magnesium intake can vary depending on diet and lifestyle.

Some people may notice:

• Feeling more tired than usual
• Occasional muscle tension
• Difficulty relaxing
• Feeling generally run down
• Changes in sleep patterns

Important:
These are general signs and can be linked to many factors — not just magnesium.

They are not a diagnosis, just something to be aware of when looking at overall diet and wellbeing.

Should You Take a Magnesium Supplement

Some people choose supplements as part of their routine, while others focus on food sources.

It depends on:

• Diet
• Lifestyle
• Personal preference

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” — it’s about what works for you.

Our Approach at Beneficial Health

At Beneficial Health, we keep things simple:

Friendly, down-to-earth advice
No pressure — just guidance
Helping you understand your options

If you’re unsure which magnesium might suit you, pop in for a chat — we’re always happy to help.

Visit Us

Beneficial Health
Stane Street Nurseries
Codmore Hill, Pulborough

Open Wednesday to Saturday 9:00am – 3:00pm
Free parking

Telephone 01798 874433

Prefer to Ask in Person

Sometimes it’s easier to talk things through.

Pop in and see us — we’d love to help