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Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate

Also known as: Magnesium chloride, Magnesium dichloride hexahydrate, Bischofite, Magnesium chloride hydrate, Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate

Overview

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is a hydrated form of magnesium chloride (Cl2Mg.6H2O), known for its role as a mineral supplement that helps maintain physiological magnesium levels in the body. It occurs naturally in mineral deposits such as bischofite, and its primary use is to prevent or treat magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia). Magnesium is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, energy production, and enzymatic reactions. While research on magnesium supplementation is extensive, specific studies addressing magnesium chloride hexahydrate are limited compared to other magnesium forms like magnesium oxide or citrate. Hence, while the importance of magnesium in diet is well established, focused research on this specific compound is still emerging.

Benefits

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate supplementation supports muscular and nerve functions as it helps maintain physiological magnesium levels in the body. Evidence suggests it may also contribute to bone health and cardiovascular function; however, the extent of these benefits can vary based on individual factors and forms of magnesium. Certain populations, especially older adults or those with gastrointestinal disorders that affect absorption, may derive more substantial benefits from this form. The clinical significance is similar to other magnesium forms, but specific effect sizes for magnesium chloride hexahydrate remain largely undocumented. Users typically notice benefits like improved nerve conductance and muscle performance within days to weeks of consistent supplementation.

How it works

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate functions by releasing magnesium ions in the body, which participate in over 300 biochemical reactions. It acts as a cofactor for numerous enzymes and stabilizes cellular membranes, influencing cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems. The compound’s magnesium ions interact with enzymes and ion channels, affecting essential cellular processes. Absorption rates may vary between individuals and are generally lower for inorganic forms compared to organic options, influenced by dosage and individual physiology.

Side effects

Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is generally regarded as safe, but may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping, particularly at higher doses where the laxative effect is more pronounced. Less common side effects can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and dizziness, usually associated with excessive intake. Severe side effects, such as respiratory depression or cardiac arrest, are rare but can occur with very high doses. Patients on blood thinners and specific antibiotics should consult healthcare providers prior to use as magnesium can interact with these medications. Special care is advised for populations including pregnant women and the elderly, as well as individuals with compromised kidney function, who should seek medical advice before supplementation.

Dosage

The typical recommended dosage for magnesium chloride hexahydrate starts at around 200 mg of elemental magnesium per day, with common ranges between 200-400 mg for general health. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level for magnesium from supplements is set at 350 mg per day. To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it is advised to take magnesium chloride with meals. Variances in recommendations may occur based on individual health conditions, and its solubility can favor its use in specific scenarios, while absorption can be affected by other dietary minerals. Enhancing factors such as vitamin D can potentially improve the bioavailability of magnesium during supplementation.

FAQs

Is magnesium chloride hexahydrate safe to take?

Generally, yes, but it may cause gastrointestinal upset in some. Consultation with a healthcare provider is advised, particularly for individuals with kidney issues.

How should I take magnesium chloride hexahydrate?

It is best taken with meals to reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects.

When can I expect to see benefits?

Users may notice benefits in muscle function and nerve transmission within days to weeks of consistent supplementation.

How does it differ from other forms of magnesium?

Different forms vary in bioavailability and side effect profiles; magnesium chloride may have lower absorption rates compared to organic forms like citrate.

Research Sources

https://archive.hshsl.umaryland.edu/bitstream/handle/10713/14947/Magnesium%20chloride_Final_2020_12.pdf?sequence=1 – This systematic review evaluates magnesium bioavailability and indicates that inorganic magnesium chloride has lower absorption rates compared to organic forms, though specific data on magnesium chloride hexahydrate remains limited.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34111673/ – This scoping review discusses the clinical practice of using magnesium chloride, emphasizing its role in treating hypomagnesemia while indicating a lack of specific trials on magnesium chloride hexahydrate.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/magnesium-chloride-4768643 – This article provides an overview of magnesium supplementation, underscoring its importance in bodily functions, while noting the research gap specific to magnesium chloride hexahydrate.