Magnesium L-Threonate

Product NameMagnesium L-Threonate
Other namesMagnesium Threonate, L-threonic acid, magmind, magtein,neuro-mag, Magnesium bis[(2R,3S)-2,3,4-trihydroxybutanoate]
CAS number778571-57-6, 500304-76-7 (hydrate)
Molecular formulaC8H14MgO10
Molecular weight294.5
AppearanceWhite crystalline, odorless 
Benefitshelp memory and cognitive functions

What is Magnesium L-Threonate?

Magnesium L-Threonate is one of the three forms of magnesium chelates in Natural Stacks highly effective nootropic supplement.  Magnesium is an essential mineral, necessary for practically all the tissues in the body, and very important for correct central nervous system functioning.  Magnesium is necessary for correct cognitive functioning in the brain, storing memory, dealing with stress, and obtaining high quality sleep. At the same time, it is thought that many people in industrialised countries are not obtaining enough magnesium through the diet. Unfortunately, many of the more common magnesium supplements fail to increase brain magnesium levels, and hence do not provide any nootropic benefits at all. In a 2010 animal study from MIT, magnesium L-threonate was the only one, of the forms of magnesium studied, which increased the concentration of the divalent ion in cerebrospinal fluid.

Background:

Magnesium is one of the most common cations in the human body, and is involved in over 300 metabolic reactions, including all reactions that require ATP. Magnesium is required for cellular energy metabolism, membrane stabilization, nerve conduction, calcium channel activity and ion transporters. Bone contains 50% to 60% of the total content of magnesium in the body. The recommend daily allowance (RDA) of magnesium is 400mg, although a large percentage of the population falls below recommended intake levels.

L-threonate (2R, 3S)-2,3,4-trihydroxybutyric acid) is an endogenous substqance found in certain plants, as well as human body as a degradation product of vitamin C. It has been identified in human plasma, urine, as well as in the aqueous humor of the eye.

Magnesium L-Threonate is a magnesium salt of L-threonic acid having the molecular formula Mg(C4H7O5)2. Magnesium L-Threonate was found to have a higher magnesium bioavailability compared to magnesium chloride, magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate and magnesium gluconate.

How does Magnesium L-Threonate work

Most magnesium supplements are not readily absorbed into the nervous system. Magnesium L-Threonate is able to pass through the blood brain barrier more effectively than other magnesium forms. Improved brain function is closely associated with the increased synaptic connections in the DG and CA1 sub regions of the Hippocampus that are known to control memory. The clinical research indicated a greater brain synapse density in subjects taking Magnesium L-Threonate. In preclinical models, L-threonate contained in Magnesium L-Threonate boosted magnesium levels in spinal fluid by an impressive 15% compared to no increase with conventional magnesium. Even more compelling, animal models revealed improvements of 18% for short-term memory and 100% for long-term memory using the Magnesium L-Threonate form of magnesium.

Benefits of taking Magnesium-l-threonate supplements

Magnesium-l-threonate is the form of magnesium that most readily crosses the blood brain barrier. Magnesium-l-threonate can help memory and cognitive functions. Cognitive functions include areas of attention, memory, executive decision, and visual and spatial recognition.

Dosage for magnesium L-threonate

Based on the animal study, 1g twice a day with a meal should be sufficient. The human study will provide greater insight into dosing.

Are there any side effects of taking magnesium L-threonate supplement?

magnesium L-threonate is the only product shown to increase brain magnesium. Some individuals have reported dizziness or slight headaches when first taking magnesium L-threonate. These conditions will go away quickly after the brain adjusts to the change. Beginning with a reduced dosage and gradually increasing to the proper dosage, may provide a more comfortable transition. It is advised to take it after dinner or before going to bed when first using this product. As always, a doctor should be consulted when starting a new regime.