The Ultimate Guide to the Different Forms of Magnesium (and Which One Is Right for You?)

Learn about the best forms of magnesium, their benefits, and which one is right for you. Discover why Stack uses magnesium glycinate for better sleep.

Science
John-Paul Andersen, PhDNovember 13, 2025
Night Stack with crescent moon showing magnesium glycinate for sleep

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for your overall health — supporting energy production, muscle function, and sleep quality. Yet not all forms of magnesium are created equal. Each type is absorbed differently by the body and has unique benefits depending on your goals.

At Phi Health, we've spent years studying nutrient absorption to design Stack™, a smarter multivitamin system that delivers magnesium at the right time for optimal performance and recovery.

The Most Common Forms of Magnesium

Magnesium Citrate

Highly bioavailable and one of the most popular forms of magnesium. It's effective for replenishing magnesium levels but may have a mild laxative effect in higher doses.

Magnesium Glycinate (Bisglycinate)

Gentle on the stomach and known for its calming properties, thanks to the amino acid glycine. It's one of the best forms for improving sleep, recovery, and relaxation — and the one featured in the Night Stack.

Magnesium Oxide

A more affordable form that is less bioavailable. Often used for its laxative or antacid effects rather than daily supplementation.

Magnesium Chloride

Easily absorbed and often used in topical applications like "magnesium oil" sprays or bath salts. Great for muscle relaxation and general support.

Specialty Forms

  • Magnesium Malate: Supports energy production and muscle recovery.
  • Magnesium Taurate: Linked to cardiovascular health and heart rhythm support.
  • Magnesium L-Threonate: Being studied for brain and cognitive performance benefits.

How to Choose the Right Type of Magnesium

GoalRecommended FormWhy It Works
Better sleep & relaxationMagnesium GlycinateCalming, easy on the stomach
Restore levels & regularityMagnesium CitrateHighly bioavailable
Digestive support or budget optionMagnesium OxideAffordable, fast-acting
Muscle recoveryMagnesium Malate or ChlorideEases muscle tension
Heart or brain supportMagnesium Taurate or L-ThreonateTargeted benefits

Stack's Advantage: Smarter Magnesium for Smarter Health

At Phi Health Sciences, we use magnesium glycinate in the Night Stack, part of our dual-phase, time-release multivitamin system. Our patented micro-bead technology releases nutrients like magnesium exactly when your body needs them — during nighttime recovery — to help you relax, restore, and prepare for the next day.

This precision delivery ensures better absorption and real results, without overwhelming your system or upsetting digestion.

Support better sleep, recovery, and performance with Stack, featuring magnesium glycinate for optimal absorption and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Ultimate Guide to the Different Forms of Magnesium (and Which One Is Right for You?) • Phi