Magnesium
Firstly, I would like to state that this is not promoting the use of magnesium or any other supplement. I am not a physician and do not recommend anyone take supplements before consulting their physician.
Over the last seven months or so, I have included magnesium glycinate in my bedtime routine each night. I started out by taking around 200 mg each evening and never felt a difference. I then began taking around 350–400 mg before bed and noticed minor differences, mainly falling asleep faster and experiencing better sleep on many nights.
Magnesium has become very popular on the internet over the last year or so, going viral and claiming to be a life changer. While for some people it may make a huge difference, for others (like me), it may just have subtle and even hidden health benefits. The common form that I have taken, and many others, is magnesium glycinate.
What is glycinate, and why is it combined with magnesium? Glycine is an amino acid that is essential for bodily function, and amino acids are considered the building blocks of life, helping with muscle repair, digestion, and many other processes. But why is it combined with magnesium? Well, many people, when taking magnesium—especially on its own—may experience gastrointestinal discomfort (tummy aches). It can also have a laxative effect, which we do not want the next day at work! This is due to the body having difficulties absorbing magnesium on its own. The combination with glycine can, one, help with absorption and, two, prevent unwanted number twos.
But why did I even decide to start supplementing this mineral? Well, I saw it on TikTok and proceeded to do some extensive research. I found that it can help promote good sleep (which sold me already), promote muscle relaxation (leading to better muscle contraction), serve as an essential mineral found in electrolytes, and potentially enhance athletic performance (which I need extensively).
Do I recommend magnesium glycinate? No.
Will I continue to take magnesium glycinate? Yes!
It is not life-changing for me, but it has helped my overall health, energy levels, and athletic performance.