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What Is Magnesium Aspartate?

Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Magnesium aspartate is a supplement primarily used to increase energy levels, particularly if a person has low levels of the magnesium mineral in his body. Although there are several different types of magnesium supplements, magnesium aspartate is made when the magnesium is combined in its salt form with an amino acid called aspartic acid, or aspartate; this form of the supplement is easy for the body to digest and it absorbs into the blood stream quickly, particularly if it is chelated, or chemically bonded.

A major part of magnesium aspartate is magnesium salt. The supplement is used to increase energy levels and fight fatigue. Some studies have shown that this is accomplished because it allows the body to better metabolize or use carbohydrates. It is also beneficial for improving heart function and the function of the lungs, and is thought to help the body maintain the proper bone density as well. As a result, it is frequently prescribed to post-menopausal women who are deficient in magnesium.

Magnesium benefits include muscle relaxation, bone strengthening, and proper blood circulation.
Magnesium benefits include muscle relaxation, bone strengthening, and proper blood circulation.

The second component of magnesium aspartate is aspartate, or aspartic acid. Its main function is to fight fatigue and increase energy. It also helps the magnesium absorb into the body — in fact, if the chelated form of magnesium aspartate is consumed, the person will feel the effects of the supplement much faster than other forms.

One of the most common ways to take magnesium aspartate is through a capsule. The capsules can be purchased at health food stores or through Internet websites. It is also available in a liquid, although this form may be harder to find. In many cases, the supplements are purchased over-the-counter, but they normally are only purchased at the suggestion of a doctor. This is usually the case after a blood test has indicated that magnesium levels are low or if a person is afflicted with certain conditions, such as long-term diarrhea or vomiting.

Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.
Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.

In many cases, magnesium aspartate supplements are not necessary. Magnesium can be found in a variety of foods, such as legumes, lentils, whole grains, chicken and even grapefruit. Eating a well-balanced diet and taking a daily multivitamin should supply the average person with enough magnesium to maintain healthy levels in the body.

There are some side effects that may be experienced by someone taking magnesium aspartate supplements. For example, stomach problems, such as diarrhea and gas, are among the most common side effects. Unless the supplements are prescribed by a doctor, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid them. In addition, people with kidney disorders may be advised to avoid the supplements as well.

Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to TheHealthBoard.

Learn more...
Dee Saale
Dee Saale

Dee is a freelance writer based in Colorado. She has a B.A. in English Literature, as well as a law degree. Dee is especially interested in topics relating to medicine, legal issues, and home improvement, which are her specialty when contributing to TheHealthBoard.

Learn more...

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    • Magnesium benefits include muscle relaxation, bone strengthening, and proper blood circulation.
      By: concept w
      Magnesium benefits include muscle relaxation, bone strengthening, and proper blood circulation.
    • Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.
      By: kmiragaya
      Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.
    • Eating grapefruits can be a source of magnesium.
      By: JackF
      Eating grapefruits can be a source of magnesium.
    • It's important to seek your physician's advice before taking magnesium aspartate supplements.
      By: Ariwasabi
      It's important to seek your physician's advice before taking magnesium aspartate supplements.
    • Confusion and rapid heartbeat may occur as a result of an insufficient amount of magnesium in the blood.
      By: hriana
      Confusion and rapid heartbeat may occur as a result of an insufficient amount of magnesium in the blood.
    • A lack of minerals such as magnesium can contribute to leg cramps.
      By: stryjek
      A lack of minerals such as magnesium can contribute to leg cramps.
    • Magnesium supplements may not be necessary for those who take multi-vitamins and have a balanced diet.
      By: monticellllo
      Magnesium supplements may not be necessary for those who take multi-vitamins and have a balanced diet.
    • Magnesium salt is used to fight fatigue.
      By: milanmarkovic78
      Magnesium salt is used to fight fatigue.