Magnesium Citrate vs Magnesium Glycinate: Reading the Labels
PublishedMagnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate products can look similar at first glance, but their labels may use different magnesium compounds, serving sizes and pack formats. The safest way to compare them is to use the complete daily-serving information rather than one number from the front of the pack.
This guide compares two current SMUG labels. It does not rank the products or recommend one for a health condition.
Label comparison at a glance
| Label detail | Magnesium Citrate | Magnesium Glycinate 5-in-1 Complex |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium forms | Magnesium citrate | Magnesium bisglycinate, citrate and malate |
| Suggested daily serving | 1 capsule | 2 capsules |
| Magnesium compounds per serving | 600mg magnesium citrate | 1,850mg combined magnesium compounds |
| Elemental magnesium per serving | 180mg (48% NRV) | 347.5mg (93% NRV) |
| Other labelled nutrients | None listed as active nutrients | Vitamin B6 25mg (1,786% NRV) and zinc 10mg (100% NRV) |
| Pack and supply | 90 vegan capsules; 90-day supply at one capsule daily | 60 vegan capsules; 30-day supply at two capsules daily |
Compound weight is not elemental magnesium
The Magnesium Citrate label shows 600mg magnesium citrate and states that this provides 180mg elemental magnesium. The Glycinate 5-in-1 label shows a combined 1,850mg of magnesium bisglycinate, citrate and malate, providing 347.5mg elemental magnesium.
When comparing the amount of magnesium itself, use the elemental-magnesium row and make sure both figures refer to the full suggested daily serving. Do not compare the 600mg and 1,850mg compound totals as though they were elemental magnesium.
Serving size changes the pack comparison
The citrate product uses one capsule daily and includes 90 capsules, so the labelled pack supply is 90 days. The glycinate complex uses two capsules daily and includes 60 capsules, so the labelled pack supply is 30 days.
Price per pack and capsule count alone therefore do not describe the same amount of supply. Check the serving directions before comparing value.
Important vitamin B6 information
The Glycinate 5-in-1 Complex includes 25mg vitamin B6 per two-capsule serving. Its product information carries an important warning: NHS guidance advises no more than 10mg a day from supplements unless advised by a doctor. Speak to a doctor before using this product.
The citrate product does not list vitamin B6 as an active nutrient. Always read the complete ingredient and warning sections for the exact product you are considering.
What to check before choosing
- the magnesium forms listed on the label;
- the elemental magnesium in the full daily serving;
- the number of capsules in that serving;
- other active nutrients and their NRV percentages;
- full ingredients and dietary suitability;
- product-specific warnings; and
- pack size and labelled days of supply.
Compare the current products
See the complete label information for Magnesium Citrate 600mg and Magnesium Glycinate 5-in-1 Complex, or view the full magnesium collection.
Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or under medical supervision, consult a doctor or healthcare professional before use.