A Look at Different Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Formulas
Pure Encapsulations offers several different types of magnesium supplements, each featuring a specific, bioavailable form of the mineral. The core ingredients differ based on the product, designed to provide targeted support, while the brand's overall philosophy is to avoid common allergens and unnecessary fillers.
Ingredients in Magnesium (Glycinate) Capsules
For individuals with sensitive digestive systems, the magnesium glycinate formula is often recommended because it is less likely to cause loose stools compared to other forms. The ingredient list is minimal and focused on purity.
- Active Ingredient: Magnesium (as magnesium glycinate)
- Other Ingredients: The capsule consists of vegetarian materials, including cellulose and water. The formula also contains ascorbyl palmitate, a fat-soluble vitamin C, which is used as a hypoallergenic manufacturing aide.
Ingredients in Magnesium (Citrate) Capsules
Magnesium citrate is a well-absorbed and common form of magnesium, known for its digestive support properties due to its mild laxative effect in some people.
- Active Ingredient: Magnesium (as magnesium citrate)
- Other Ingredients: Like the glycinate version, it features a vegetarian capsule (cellulose and water) and includes ascorbyl palmitate.
Ingredients in UltraMag® Magnesium
This product uses an advanced microencapsulation technology to boost magnesium absorption. The ingredients reflect this specialized formulation.
- Active Ingredient: Magnesium (as microencapsulated magnesium), which is a blend of magnesium oxide and other excipients.
- Other Ingredients: This formula is more complex due to the microencapsulation process and includes: microencapsulated magnesium (magnesium oxide, pregelatinized rice starch, sucrose esters of fatty acids, sunflower lecithin, tricalcium phosphate, rice flour), vegetarian capsule (cellulose, water), and hypoallergenic plant fiber (cellulose).
Ingredients in Magnesium Liquid
Pure Encapsulations also offers magnesium in a liquid format, which has a distinct ingredient list to ensure taste and consistency.
- Active Ingredients: Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl) and Magnesium (as magnesium citrate).
- Other Ingredients: The liquid base contains purified water, natural glycerin, apple juice concentrate, xylitol, natural flavors (including pomegranate), xanthan gum (a thickening agent), citric acid, potassium sorbate (a preservative), and purified stevia leaf extract.
Commitment to Purity: The Role of 'Other Ingredients'
Pure Encapsulations is well-regarded for its commitment to providing hypoallergenic supplements free from many common additives found in other brands. Their formulation principles mean they consciously exclude ingredients like magnesium stearate, a typical lubricant, instead running machines more slowly. Their hypoallergenic approach avoids gluten, dairy, soy, tree nuts, and artificial colors or sweeteners. The 'other ingredients' list is designed to be as minimal and non-reactive as possible, a key consideration for individuals with sensitivities. For instance, they use ascorbyl palmitate as a manufacturing aide.
Comparison of Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Formulas
| Feature | Magnesium (Glycinate) | Magnesium (Citrate) | UltraMag® Magnesium | Magnesium Liquid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Form | Magnesium glycinate | Magnesium citrate | Microencapsulated magnesium oxide | Magnesium citrate |
| Absorption | Very well absorbed; excellent tolerability for sensitive individuals. | Well absorbed; can have a mild laxative effect at higher doses. | Superior absorption due to Sucrosomial® technology. | Very well absorbed due to chelated liquid form. |
| Key Benefit | Supports relaxation, sleep, muscle function, and is gentle on the stomach. | Supports overall magnesium levels, digestive regularity, and cardiovascular health. | Designed for enhanced absorption and tolerability. | Great for those who prefer liquid supplements, supports bone and muscle function. |
| Additives | Vegetarian capsule (cellulose, water), ascorbyl palmitate. | Vegetarian capsule (cellulose, water), ascorbyl palmitate. | Microencapsulation complex, vegetarian capsule, hypoallergenic plant fiber. | Purified water, natural sweeteners, flavors, xanthan gum, etc.. |
| Best For | Daily use for relaxation and those with GI sensitivities. | Digestive support and general magnesium replenishment. | Maximum absorption and efficacy. | Convenient, great-tasting alternative to capsules. |
Conclusion
When examining the ingredient list for Pure Encapsulations magnesium supplements, the primary difference is the type of magnesium compound used and the excipients required for that specific formula. The company consistently prioritizes purity by using minimal, hypoallergenic additives and avoiding common fillers like magnesium stearate. This allows consumers to choose a product that best suits their individual needs for absorption, tolerability, and specific health goals, whether it’s the calming effect of glycinate or the superior absorption of UltraMag. By understanding these ingredients, you can make a more informed decision about your dietary supplement choices.
For more information on the distinctions between different forms of magnesium, an authoritative source is the Life Extension blog.
What Makes a Magnesium Supplement Bioavailable?
Chelation, where the magnesium is bound to another molecule like an amino acid (glycine) or an organic acid (citric acid), significantly increases the mineral's stability and absorption. This process allows the body to absorb and utilize the magnesium more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort.
How to Choose the Right Pure Encapsulations Magnesium
- For Relaxation/Sleep: Consider Magnesium (Glycinate) due to its calming effects and excellent tolerability.
- For Digestive Regularity: If you occasionally need digestive support, Magnesium (Citrate) can be a good option due to its mild laxative properties.
- For Maximum Absorption: UltraMag is formulated with advanced technology for superior absorption, making it a good choice for those seeking maximum efficacy.
- For Convenience: Magnesium Liquid provides a palatable alternative for those who prefer not to swallow capsules.
The Role of Glycine in Magnesium Glycinate
The glycine in magnesium glycinate is a calming amino acid that aids in the production of neurotransmitters like GABA, which promotes relaxation. This is why magnesium glycinate is often recommended for stress relief and sleep support.
Additives in Liquid vs. Capsule Formulas
The liquid magnesium formula contains additional ingredients such as natural sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives to ensure palatability and shelf stability. Capsule formulas, on the other hand, require minimal 'other ingredients,' typically just the vegetarian capsule and a manufacturing aide like ascorbyl palmitate.
Can I take a Pure Encapsulations magnesium supplement with food?
Yes, it is generally recommended to take most Pure Encapsulations magnesium supplements with food to optimize absorption and minimize any potential gastrointestinal upset.
Is Pure Encapsulations Magnesium suitable for vegans?
Yes, Pure Encapsulations magnesium capsules and liquids are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as they use plant-based cellulose capsules and contain no animal-derived ingredients.
