Magnesium citrate is recognised as one of the best-absorbed forms of magnesium. Unlike magnesium oxide (often used in entry-level products but poorly bioavailable), citrate offers superior intestinal absorption and excellent digestive tolerance.

Each 3-capsule dose provides 2,667 mg of magnesium citrate, equivalent to 400 mg of elemental magnesium, or 107% of the nutrient reference values. The formula is GMO-free, gluten-free, soy-free and vegan. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions: energy production (ATP), muscle contraction, nerve transmission, bone mineralisation, protein synthesis and blood-sugar regulation. Magnesium deficiency is extremely common — more than 70% of the French population doesn’t meet recommended intakes.

Magnesium citrate is particularly recommended for fatigue, stress, muscle cramps and cardiovascular support. The citric acid it’s paired with also contributes to the body’s acid-base balance.

Unlike magnesium bisglycinate (more focused on relaxation and sleep thanks to glycine), citrate is versatile: energy, muscles, nerves, bone — the “all-terrain” form of magnesium, suited to most situations. Clinical studies show that magnesium citrate significantly improves deficiency markers after 4-6 weeks of regular supplementation. It is also used before colonoscopy for its mild intestinal osmotic effect at high doses.

Each magnesium form answers a specific need. Citrate is versatile (energy, muscles, acid-base balance). Bisglycinate is ideal for stress, sleep and anxiety (thanks to glycine). Malate is the energising form par excellence (Krebs cycle, fibromyalgia). Citrate is the most studied and versatile form — an excellent starting point if you’re unsure which form to choose, suited to the vast majority of people looking for an effective, well-tolerated magnesium.

The recommended dose is 3 capsules per day, ideally with meals to improve digestive tolerance — split as 1 capsule morning, midday and evening, or all 3 at once. Avoid taking magnesium at the same time as antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones) or bisphosphonates: leave at least 2 hours between doses. Combining with vitamin B6 improves the cellular absorption of magnesium.

The course can run continuously for several weeks, then continue as maintenance at 1-2 capsules a day. No overdose risk at food-supplement doses — excess is naturally eliminated by the kidneys. Not recommended in cases of severe kidney failure.

Does magnesium citrate have a laxative effect?

At a normal dose (400 mg/day), the laxative effect is minimal. It may appear in sensitive people or at high doses — if so, reduce to 2 capsules a day and increase gradually.

Can magnesium citrate be combined with other supplements?

Yes, it combines well with vitamin D, vitamin B6, zinc and taurine. Avoid taking it at the same time as calcium (leave 2 hours) or tetracycline antibiotics.

What’s the difference with Now Foods magnesium citrate powder?

It’s the same molecule — only the format changes. The powder allows more flexible dosing and faster absorption; capsules are more convenient on the go.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.