What is Magnesium Orotate?

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Posted: 20 Jul 2014 08:00 AM PDT

A quiet and unassuming mineral, magnesium — one of the least talked about nutrients — holds vital importance for human health. Over 300 enzymatic reactions employ magnesium, and other nutrients rely on it in order to function properly. Magnesium is a known muscle relaxant, and some claim that supplementation with the nutrient may decrease symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome. Orotate, a type of magnesium salt from orotic acid, is common in many mineral supplements. Its function is the same as other types of magnesium, and research shows that it holds specific benefits for the heart.

What is Magnesium Orotate?

It is believed that magnesium orotate, the magnesium salt of orotic acid, passes easily through the cell compared with other types of magnesium. While this remains up for debate, magnesium orotate continues to be the most popular supplement on the market. All types of magnesium, whether it is orotate or citrate, seem to provide roughly the same benefits as naturally-occurring magnesium. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet often lacks foods high in magnesium, leading many people to become deficient in this important nutrient.

It is wise to incorporate more magnesium-rich foods in the diet if you feel you are not receiving enough of this health-supporting nutrient. Natural sources of magnesium include:

Almonds
Flaxseed
Pumpkin seeds
Sunflower seeds
Tomatoes

Benefits of Magnesium Orotate

Having a nutrient that can easily pass into the cell and be utilized efficiently can be incredibly helpful, especially for those that currently suffer from a nutrient deficiency. Magnesium orotate holds numerous benefits for the human body; yet, only a sparse amount of research is available on its effects. Fortunately, all magnesium orotate research is promising and highly positive, showing benefits for cardiovascular health and gastrointestinal support.

Cardiovascular Health

Studies administering orotic acid salts, magnesium salts to be specific, found that supplementation improved myocardial function. ^[1] One study also showed that magnesium orotate may be beneficial to those who have suffered from heart failure, possibly increasing survival rate and improving quality of life. ^[2]

Endurance

Research in animal and human models has shown that magnesium orotate may be effective for increasing endurance and exercise tolerance. ^[3] These effects were especially noted in patients who previously suffered from cardiovascular issues. Trained athletes have also shown endurance-supportive effects following magnesium orotate supplementation. Further research is needed to determine if these effects on endurance could benefit the general population.

GI Support

One study focused on children with constipation issues found that magnesium orotate was effective for relieving symptoms. ^[4] This doesn't come as any surprise to most physicians, as magnesium is known to be a natural laxative. The benefits of magnesium orotate on other gastrointestinal conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome, have yet to be determined. Future research is needed to determine its role in the support of the GI system.

The Take Home

Specific scrutinization on magnesium orotate is essential for determining its exact health benefits in the human body. The little that is known, however, is certainly promising. Magnesium in general is necessary for a wide range of health-related mechanisms, so it is important that you know where you stand when it comes to getting enough of this mineral on a daily basis. If you are having difficulty consuming and getting enough magnesium, it may be wise to seek out a high-quality supplement, particularly one that is combined with calcium orotate. These two nutrients work together synergistically for the benefit of the entire body.

Were you aware of the different types of magnesium? What are your favorite magnesium-rich foods? Share with us your thoughts in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM