TL;DR When comparing magnesium supplements, don’t just look at the quantity supplied per dose... The form of magnesium matters, too!
For example, magnesium oxide is commonly used in supplements because it is highly
concentrated and inexpensive but poorly absorbed by the horse. In contrast, magnesium glycinate is less concentrated with a higher cost but selected for premium formulations because of its high absorption characteristics and lack of unwanted “laxative” qualities.
If you’ve shopped for horse calming supplements, you’ve probably noticed that magnesium compounds are the most common ingredients. But not all magnesium compounds are the same. The most frequently added form is magnesium oxide. Less commonly added are organic
forms such as magnesium citrate and the premium compound, magnesium glycinate.
Understanding the differences between magnesium sources can help you make a more
informed decision when choosing a magnesium supplement for your horse.
⭐The most frequently added form is magnesium oxide. Less commonly added are organic forms such as magnesium citrate and the premium compound, magnesium glycinate.
Understanding the differences between magnesium sources can help you make a more
informed decision when choosing a magnesium supplement for your horse.
Why Magnesium Matters
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biological processes. In horses, it plays an important role in:
* Normal muscle function 💪
* Healthy nerve signaling 🧠
* Energy metabolism 🪫
* Supporting normal relaxation 🧘
* Overall health and well-being ❤️
While true magnesium deficiency isn’t common in every horse, some horses may have increased magnesium requirements depending on factors such as diet, forage quality, stress, workload, or other nutritional considerations.
What Is Magnesium Oxide?
~Magnesium oxide is one of the most commonly used forms of supplemental magnesium~
PROS‼️
* Contains a high percentage of elemental magnesium
* Generally the least expensive form
* Widely available in horse supplements
CONSIDERATIONS 🤔
Although magnesium oxide contains a large amount of elemental magnesium by weight, it has relatively low water solubility. Because of this, the amount that ultimately becomes available for absorption is also low and can vary depending on digestive conditions.
What Is Magnesium Glycinate?
~Magnesium glycinate consists of magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine. This type of compound is commonly referred to as a chelated form of magnesium~
Chelation helps protect the mineral as it moves through the digestive tract and prevents the mineral in a form that can be readily absorbed.
Pros‼️
* Chelated form of magnesium
* Gentle on the digestive system
* Less likely to contribute to digestive upset compared with some other magnesium forms
* Commonly chosen when maximizing magnesium availability is a priority
???Which Form Does EZium Use???
All EZium products are formulated with magnesium glycinate. Rather than simply providing a large amount of elemental magnesium, our goal is to provide a form that is well suited for absorption which fits into a comprehensive formula designed to support normal muscle function, relaxation, and willingness to work.
Magnesium Glycinate vs. Magnesium Oxide
|
Question |
Magnesium Glycinate |
Magnesium Oxide |
|
What is it? |
A complex organic form of magnesium attached to the amino acid glycine (a chelated form) ✅ |
A simple mineral form of magnesium |
|
How well is it absorbed? |
Proven to be more readily absorbed ✅ |
Proven to be less readily absorbed |
|
Is it gentle on the stomach? |
YES! ✅ |
May cause digestive upset and diarrhea in some horses |
|
Why do companies use it? |
Premium ingredient focused on quality ✅ |
Lower-cost source that supplies high levels of magnesium |
|
Typical price |
Higher 💲 💲 💲 |
Lower 💲 💲 |
|
Used in EZium? |
✅YES |
❌NO |
Which to Buy?
Both magnesium oxide and magnesium glycinate have value in equine nutrition and their use can be appropriate depending on your horse’s needs and your goals.
1. If you’re looking for the lowest-cost source of magnesium, for horses faces few challenges, magnesium oxide is the most economical option.
2. If your horse has increased magnesium requirements and you
prefer a premium formulation designed with maximum absorption in mind, magnesium glycinate may be worth considering.
The Bottom Line
When comparing equine supplements, don’t just look at how much magnesium is listed on the label. The form of magnesium matters, too! Magnesium oxide is inexpensive and commonly used, while magnesium glycinate is a chelated form often selected for premium formulations because of its absorption characteristics and digestive tolerance.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the supplement that’s the best fit for your horse's unique requirements.