Magnesium Orotate vs. Magnesium Citrate

A magnesium deficiency in the blood can cause many unwanted symptoms, including agitation, muscle spasms and seizures. Foods rich in magnesium, such as whole grains, beans, peas, nuts and green vegetables, can contribute to a healthy diet. In some cases, a magnesium supplement may be helpful. Magnesium orotate and magnesium citrate are two fairly common types of magnesium formulations that are available. Magnesium may be used in conjunction with traditional therapies to treat such conditions as asthma, heart failure and RLS. Check with a healthcare professional to see which form of magnesium is best for you.

Magnesium Orotate

Dr. Carolyn Dean, author of "The Magnesium Miracle," asserts that changes in our diets and the way in which food is processed have left many of us with deficient levels of the nutrient magnesium. Magnesium orotate is one compound that has been used effectively to treat magnesium deficiency and its associated symptoms. In magnesium orotate, magnesium is bound to oratic acid. While a 500 milligram tablet of magnesium orotate may contain only 31 milligrams of magnesium, the mineral is absorbed very efficiently by your body. Magnesium orotate can be used to improve sleep, as it inhibits some "stress" hormones like adrenalin. Doctors also associate it with improved cardiovascular health, based on the fact that the mineral can help to relieve tension on blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Magnesium orotate supports good hydration of your body by helping to regulate the flow of sodium and potassium through your cells.

Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium for Menopause

Learn More

Magnesium citrate is one of the most commonly recommended and easily absorbed forms of magnesium, according to the AFIB Report. Apart from its traditional use as a colon cleanser or laxative, magnesium citrate may also enhance the effectiveness of other supplements and minerals in the body. Magnesium citrate is sometimes recommended over other magnesium compounds because the citrate acts as a buffer to counteract mild abdominal upsets associated with taking mineral supplements. Taking magnesium citrate along with calcium, vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin B complex and other antioxidant supplements can have great health benefits for your body.

Side Effects

Overuse or over dosage of magnesium citrate and magnesium orotate can cause a number of side effects, including abdominal cramps, gas, nausea, dehydration, dry mouth and dizziness. It is also important when taking magnesium supplements to be aware of signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, tissue swelling, rash and difficulty breathing. In case of an allergic reaction, you should seek medical assistance immediately. Get advice about the appropriate dosage from a healthcare practitioner.

Orotate vs. Citrate

Does Magnesium Help You Lose Weight?

Learn More

Both magnesium orotate and magnesium citrate can have beneficial effects for your body when used for the right purpose and in the right dosage. Although both seem to be absorbed quite easily, you should talk to an informed health professional about whether to take magnesium supplements and which one is the best formulation for you.