Magnesium L-threonate
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in more than 300 reactions in the body.
Mg(C₄H₇O₅)₂
≈1.5–2 g of L-threonate (≈100–145 mg of elemental magnesium) a day. If your multivitamin contains magnesium, subtract it.
What it is
The L-threonate form was developed at MIT to raise magnesium in the brain, which in animal studies it does better than other forms. That is why it is studied for cognition and sleep.
What it is used for
The quiz suggests it when your answers justify it. It usually appears with these goals:
What the evidence says
Trials in people that point the same way, but still few, small or funded by the manufacturer.
Authorised EU claim (magnesium): contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system and to normal psychological function. Trials with this form (sleep and cognition) are positive, but few and mostly funded by the manufacturer.
| Year | What was studied | What was found | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | The original study of the compound | 12-week RCT in 44 adults aged 50 to 70 with cognitive complaints: MMFS-01, a magnesium L-threonate formula, improved overall cognitive ability compared with placebo. (Funded by the company that developed the compound.) | Liu et al.Journal of Alzheimer's Disease |
| 2025 | The most recent on cognition and sleep | 6-week RCT in 100 adults aged 18 to 45 who slept poorly: 2 g of Magtein® a day improved the overall cognitive score and reaction time. For sleep, only the daytime impact of poor rest improved. (Funded by the manufacturer.) | Lopresti et al.Frontiers in Nutrition |
| 2024 | The most relevant for sleep | 21-day RCT in 80 adults aged 35 to 55 with sleep problems: 1 g a day improved deep and REM sleep scores measured with an Oura ring, and daytime mood and energy. (Funded by a company that sells the ingredient.) | Hausenblas et al.Sleep Medicine: X |
What to look for on the label
- That the label states the elemental magnesium, not just the weight of the compound.
Precautions
- If you have kidney disease, ask first.
- Keep it 2–4 hours apart from levothyroxine, bisphosphonates and antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones).
- Its EU authorisation excludes pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Where to find it
Products whose label meets what this profile asks for: form, dose per serving and nothing that contradicts it. Three at most: quality of the active comes first and, among the best, we look for one option in each price range. We choose by composition, not by who pays. The shops are European or ship to Europe.
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iHerbShips from the US, VAT included€€€High endNOW Foods
Magtein®
667 mg of Magtein® (48 mg of magnesium) per capsule
For the reference dose3 capsules: 2 g (144 mg of magnesium)View at iHerb (opens in a new tab)Meets the criteria.
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HSNShips from Spain€BudgetEssential Series
Magnesium L-threonate Magtein®
667 mg of Magtein® (48 mg of magnesium) per capsule
For the reference dose3 capsules: 2 g (144 mg of magnesium)View at HSN (opens in a new tab)Meets the criteria.
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Life ExtensionShips from the Netherlands€BudgetLife Extension
Neuro-Mag® (Magtein®)
2 g of Magtein® (144 mg of magnesium) per 3 capsules
For the reference dose3 capsules: 2 g (144 mg of magnesium)View at Life Extension (opens in a new tab)Meets the criteria.
We link to the shop; we do not sell anything. Today we earn no commission on any link. If we ever do, the link will say so and the selection will not change: the label decides. Labels checked on 2 November 2026; check the one on the pack before you buy. All these shops deliver to the EU; some of their pages open in Spanish. How we are funded.
Nearby in the library
Is it for you?
The quiz decides from your answers, not from a profile.
Profile reviewed on 3 November 2026. Sources: EFSA, Regulation (EU) 432/2012 and published studies. Image: Chemical apparatus. Engraving by J. Pass, 1801. Wellcome Collection, public domain.
General information based on published scientific evidence and EU law. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease.
Do not exceed the daily dose stated on each product. If you take medication, have a medical condition or have any doubts, ask your doctor or pharmacist.