Magnesium bisglycinate: dose, form and what the label doesn't tell you

[Nutritionist name]Registered Nutritionist, adviser to Full Moon
Published  · Last verified

Magnesium bisglycinate is magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine. It's a well-tolerated form, widely used because it dissolves well. Full Moon contains 207 mg of elemental magnesium per sachet (55% NRV) as bisglycinate, which sits under EFSA's 250 mg daily level for supplemental magnesium. Labels that quote a compound weight can overstate the magnesium itself.

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What bisglycinate is

Magnesium bisglycinate is one magnesium atom bound to two molecules of glycine, an amino acid. It's a chelated form: well tolerated, and it dissolves well in warm milk, which is why it's widely used in drinks.

Elemental vs compound: why 200 mg isn't always 200 mg

A label can quote the weight of the whole compound or the magnesium inside it. Magnesium is roughly 14% of magnesium bisglycinate by weight, so "200 mg magnesium bisglycinate" holds about 28 mg of magnesium. Full Moon declares the elemental figure.

How much is in Full Moon and why 207 mg

Each sachet has 207 mg of elemental magnesium, 55% of the 375 mg Nutrient Reference Value. That sits under the 250 mg a day EFSA set as the tolerable upper level for supplemental magnesium, leaving room for the magnesium you get from food.

The authorised claims for magnesium

Three claims are authorised in the UK and EU for a product with this much magnesium. These are the only claims we make:

  • Magnesium contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system.
  • Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function.
  • Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Who should check with a pharmacist first

If you take prescription medicines, have a kidney condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a pharmacist or GP before adding a magnesium supplement. [Wording pending regulatory review]

Sources: EFSA · NHS · pack spec Rev02 · checked

One sachet, one night. £0.66 a night, delivered monthly. £19.99 a month for 30 sachets · 2-month minimum (£39.98) · then monthly, skip, pause or cancel
Start my 60 nights