You’ve likely heard magnesium can help with sleep, stress, and muscle recovery. But not all magnesium supplements are created equal. Many magnesium bislycinate products on the market are made up of a blend of different forms of magnesium including citrate and oxide. But what’s the difference and what does it mean for you?
In this guide, we’ll compare the top three forms of magnesium and explain why 100% Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate—not a blend—is the most reliable choice for daily support.
Why Magnesium Is Essential
Magnesium is a powerhouse mineral involved in over 300 biological functions, including:
- Supporting energy production
- Calming the nervous system
- Promoting restful sleep
- Aiding muscle recovery
- Supporting bone and heart health
And yet, up to 50% of people may not get enough magnesium through diet alone1. Supplementation can help—if you choose the right form.
A Quick Breakdown: The 3 Most Common Forms
Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium bound to citric acid
Pros:
- Good absorption
- May support occasional digestive regularity
Cons:
- Can cause loose stools
- May not suit sensitive stomachs
Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium combined with oxygen
Pros:
- Widely available
- Often included in general supplements
Cons:
- Low absorption (~4%)
- More likely to cause digestive discomfort
- Limited benefit for everyday wellness support2
Magnesium Bisglycinate
Magnesium chelated (bound) with glycine
Pros:
- Very high absorption
- Gentle on the stomach
- Glycine supports relaxation and sleep quality3
Cons:
- Not all magnesium bisglycinate products are comprised of ONLY magnesium bisglycinate- consumers may not know to double check the label prior to purchasing.
The Fine Print: Not All Magnesium Bisglycinate Is the Same
It’s easy to assume all magnesium bisglycinates are equal, but many are actually blends—and that can impact performance.
What’s in a Magnesium Bisglycinate Blend?
Some products list "magnesium bisglycinate" on the label but contain:
- A smaller amount of fully chelated bisglycinate
- Additional sources such as magnesium oxide or citrate
- Labeling terms like “magnesium bisglycinate blend,” “buffered bisglycinate,” or “magnesium (as bisglycinate and oxide)” that may be too subtle to notice at first
This approach can dilute the expected benefits of bisglycinate, leading to reduced absorption and greater chances of digestive upset.
So while it may look like you’re getting magnesium bisglycinate, you’re actually getting a mix—one that doesn’t offer the same support you’d expect from a 100% pure version.
The best way to check if your Magnesium Bisglycinate is a blend is to always check the label. If the ingredients panel says ‘Magnesium Bisglycinate, Magnesium Citrate’ then it’s NOT 100% Pure. A one second flick test can really make the difference when it comes to Magnesium Bisglycinate!
Why 100% Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate Is Different
Jamieson’s 100% Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate delivers:
- Only fully chelated bisglycinate—no added forms
- A clean, consistent source of highly absorbable magnesium
- A clinically supported 100 mg [HK3] dose per capsule
This ensures:
- Maximized absorption
- Minimal digestive side effects
- Reliable support for sleep, stress, and muscle recovery
100 mg of pure bisglycinate = more effective, more usable, and more supportive than a higher dose of a diluted blend. It’s a thoughtful approach to magnesium that prioritizes efficacy, comfort, and trust.
Quick Comparison Table
|
Magnesium Type |
Absorption |
Stomach Tolerance |
Best Use |
Blend Risk |
|
Magnesium Citrate |
Good |
Moderate |
Digestion, energy |
No |
|
Magnesium Oxide |
Low |
Low |
Short-term use |
Commonly included in blends |
|
Magnesium Bisglycinate (Blend) |
Inconsistent |
Varies |
Labeled for general support |
Yes |
|
100% Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate |
Excellent |
High |
Daily wellness, sleep, stress |
No |
Bottom Line
If you’re supplementing every day, your body deserves a form of magnesium it can actually use. Blended versions may sound like magnesium bisglycinate, but they don’t deliver the full benefit—especially when other forms are mixed in.
Choose 100% Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate, like the kind offered by Jamieson, for daily wellness support you can trust. No compromises. No hidden ingredients. Just magnesium that works as hard as you do.
References:
- National Institutes of Health. (2022). Magnesium Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
- Firoz, M., & Graber, M. (2001). Bioavailability of U.S. magnesium preparations
- Frontiers in Psychiatry (2012). Role of glycine in improving sleep quality
