Magnesium Bisglycinate vs Magnesium Glycinate: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been exploring magnesium supplements, you’ve likely come across two similar-sounding terms: Magnesium Bisglycinate and Magnesium Glycinate. While they’re often used interchangeably in casual conversation, there are important distinctions to be aware of—especially when choosing a premium supplement.

Quick Overview:

• Magnesium Glycinate is a broad term that refers to magnesium that is bound to glycine, an amino acid known for its calming effects.
• Magnesium Bisglycinate is a specific form of magnesium glycinate where two glycine molecules are bound to one magnesium ion, creating a chelated form that is particularly well-tolerated and highly bioavailable.

Let’s break it down further.

What Is Magnesium Glycinate?

Magnesium glycinate refers generally to any supplement that contains magnesium and glycine. However, the structure can vary depending on the manufacturing process, and not all magnesium glycinate supplements are fully reacted or chelated.

Some cheaper forms may be buffered with magnesium oxide—meaning you're not just getting magnesium glycinate, but a mixture of compounds. This can lead to less absorption and more digestive discomfort.

Why Choose Magnesium Bisglycinate?

Fully chelated magnesium bisglycinate, a form in which two glycine molecules are bonded to one magnesium atom, offers three key advantages:

1. Superior Absorption:
   The chelated form helps magnesium bypass harsh digestive processes, improving absorption in the intestines.
2. Gentle on the Stomach:
   Because of its unique structure, magnesium bisglycinate is less likely to cause laxative effects, bloating, or cramping.
3. Enhanced Calming Benefits:
   Glycine itself is a calming amino acid that supports better sleep and reduced anxiety. With two glycine molecules, bisglycinate may amplify these benefits.

Why It Matters for Your Health

Not all magnesium supplements are created equal. If you’re taking magnesium for sleep, stress, muscle recovery, or heart health, you want a form that’s gentle, absorbable, and effective.

The Bottom Line

When choosing a magnesium supplement, transparency and quality matter. Make sure to choose a magnesium bisglycinate that is third-party tested, sourced from trusted manufacturers, and formulated to help you optimize how well you live—not just how long.