Inspired by Barbara O’Neill
Magnesium supplements can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
If we take too much of any mineral, it can backfire — and if we choose the wrong type, the risks increase.
To make matters worse, many supplements on the market are low-quality or fake.
For example: there is no such thing as “real” Ginseng in supplement form.
Some trusted brands — like NOW Foods, Double Sword, or Nutricost — are generally okay. But even with good brands, the form of magnesium matters.
Personally, I get enough magnesium from my diet and daily baths with magnesium sulfate, so I don’t take magnesium supplements at all.
Why Magnesium Matters
Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
It’s critical for:
Muscle function (including the heart)
Nervous system health
Energy production
The Hidden Dangers of Magnesium Supplements
Too much magnesium can cause toxicity.
It’s important to ask:
How much magnesium are you already getting from food?
Are you taking other supplements that also contain magnesium?
Risks of overuse:
Can interfere with antibiotics (reduces effectiveness)
Can reduce the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications
First step: Check with a qualified health practitioner to confirm if you have a magnesium deficiency.
Best Natural Sources of Magnesium
Dark leafy greens
Nuts and seeds
Pumpkin seeds
Dark cacao
Legumes
Avocado
Bananas
Magnesium Supplements — Best & Worst Forms
Avoid:
Magnesium Oxide – Only ~4% absorption; can cause gut cramps.
Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom salt) – Fine for baths, but not for daily oral use.
Magnesium Citrate – Can cause frequent trips to the toilet.
Better Choices:
Magnesium Glycinate – Supports sleep, calms the digestive system.
Magnesium Malate – Boosts energy, helps muscle health; recommended for chronic fatigue.
Magnesium Threonate – Supports brain health, cognitive function, and memory.
Magnesium Taurate – Benefits heart health.
Topical Magnesium
Magnesium Chloride Oil – Can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the skin.
✅ Bottom line:
Choose the right form of magnesium for your specific health needs.
Get as much as possible from natural food sources.
Don’t supplement blindly — know your levels first.