Magnesium Bisglycinate vs Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium Bisglycinate vs Magnesium Glycinate

Written by: Dr. Justine Luchini

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Time to read 7 min

Magnesium bisglycinate and magnesium glycinate are essentially the same highly bioavailable compound. Both terms refer to a chelated form of magnesium bound to two glycine molecules — an amino acid known for its calming effects. More precisely, the name “bisglycinate” refers to the two glycine molecules, whereas “glycinate” is a simplified reference. Regardless of the term, this form is known for being highly absorbable and having a gentle effect on the stomach compared to other types of magnesium.


Thirdzy's premium magnesium bisglycinate formula contains 250mg of magnesium bisglycinate, the optimal dose for supporting deep sleep, muscle relaxation, and overnight recovery. Combined with hydrolyzed collagen, GABA, and L-Theanine, Thirdzy delivers superior absorption and effectiveness compared to standalone magnesium supplements.

Understanding Magnesium Chelation: Bisglycinate vs Glycinate

The confusion between magnesium bisglycinate and glycinate stems from different manufacturers using varying terminology for the same chelated compound. Both forms involve magnesium bound to amino acids, specifically glycine, creating a stable molecular structure that enhances absorption and reduces digestive upset.

The Science of Chelated Magnesium

Chelation involves binding magnesium to amino acids, protecting the mineral from stomach acid and improving intestinal absorption. This process creates a more stable compound that your body can utilize effectively, unlike cheaper forms like magnesium oxide that often cause digestive issues.


Thirdzy uses pharmaceutical-grade magnesium bisglycinate because this form provides:

  • Superior absorption rates: Up to 4x better than magnesium oxide

  • Gentle on digestionNo laxative effects or stomach upset

  • Enhanced bioavailability: More magnesium reaches your cells

  • Optimal timing for sleep: Works synergistically with other recovery nutrients

Why Magnesium Form Matters for Sleep and Recovery

Not all magnesium supplements are created equal. The form of magnesium determines how well your body absorbs and utilizes this essential mineral. For athletes and active individuals seeking recovery focused sleep support, the choice between different magnesium forms can significantly impact results.

Quick Comparison: Magnesium Forms at a Glance 

Factor

Bisglycinate/Glycinate

Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium Threonate

Absorption Rate

Excellent (4x better than oxide)

Poor

Good

Good

Digestive Tolerance

Excellent (no upset)

Poor (causes diarrhea)

Moderate (mild laxative)

Good

Sleep Benefits

Excellent

Minimal

Moderate

Moderate

Muscle Relaxation

Excellent

Poor

Good

Limited

Bioavailability

Highest

Lowest

High

High

Cost

Moderate

Low

Moderate

High

Best For

Sleep & Recovery

Budget option

General use

Brain health

Side Effects

Minimal

Digestive upset

Loose stools

Minimal


Why Thirdzy Uses Bisglycinate: This comparison clearly shows why Thirdzy chose magnesium bisglycinate — it offers the best combination of absorption, tolerability, and sleep-specific benefits for athletic recovery.

Magnesium Bisglycinate: The Gold Standard

Magnesium bisglycinate isn’t just easier on your stomach—it’s a scientifically superior form of magnesium that delivers dual-action sleep and recovery benefits.


The “bis” prefix means that each magnesium ion is bound to two glycine molecules — an amino acid with well-documented calming and sleep-supportive effects. This unique chelation structure gives magnesium bisglycinate distinct advantages over other forms like citrate or oxide.

What makes it the gold standard?

1. Superior Absorption & Bioavailability

The glycine chelation protects magnesium from stomach acid and enhances its absorption in the small intestine. This means more magnesium actually reaches your cells, where it supports muscle relaxation, nervous system balance, and overnight recovery.

2. Gentle on Digestion

Unlike magnesium oxide or citrate, bisglycinate doesn’t cause loose stools or digestive discomfort. It’s ideal for daily, long-term use.

3. Glycine’s Direct Sleep Benefits

Glycine doesn’t just help with absorption—it directly helps you sleep. Research shows that glycine before bed can:

  • Lower core body temperature to promote sleep onset

  • Improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime wake-ups

  • Enhance next-day mental clarity and alertness

  • Calm the nervous system by acting as an inhibitory neurotransmitter

By combining magnesium and glycine in one molecule, magnesium bisglycinate provides synergistic benefits that go beyond mineral replenishment—it actively supports deeper, more restorative sleep.

4. Optimal for Recovery-Focused Sleep Stacks

Magnesium bisglycinate pairs exceptionally well with other recovery-enhancing ingredients like GABA, L-Theanine, and hydrolyzed collagen — making it the perfect foundation for Thirdzy’s sleep and recovery formula.


That’s why we use this form — not just for better absorption, but for better results.


Plus magnesium bisglycinate may be preferential to melatonin if you’re concerned about the effects of melatonin on your hormones and metabolism.

A Sleep Stack With More Than Just Magnesium

While standalone magnesium supplements provide basic mineral support, Thirdzy's comprehensive sleep stack combines magnesium bisglycinate with three other clinically researched ingredients for superior results.

Ingredient Combination

  • Magnesium Bisglycinate (250mg): Relaxes muscles and calms the nervous system 

  • Hydrolyzed Collagen (10g): Supports overnight muscle and joint repair 

  • GABA (300mg): Reduces stress and promotes transition to sleep

  • L-Theanine (200mg): Enhances sleep quality without sedation

This combination creates complementary effects that no single ingredient can achieve alone. The magnesium supports the effectiveness of GABA and L-Theanine, while collagen provides the building blocks for overnight recovery.

Why Combination Formulas Work Better

Research shows that combining complementary nutrients enhances overall effectiveness. Thirdzy's formula leverages this principle by:

  • Targeting multiple sleep pathways: Physical relaxation, mental calming, and recovery support

  • Optimizing absorption timing: All ingredients work together during sleep phases

  • Reducing supplement burden: One scoop replaces multiple separate products

  • Ensuring proper ratios: Clinically researched doses of each ingredient

Optimal Dosing: Getting Magnesium Bisglycinate Right

The effectiveness of magnesium bisglycinate depends heavily on proper dosing. Too little provides minimal benefit, while too much can cause digestive upset even with this gentle form.

Clinical Research on Magnesium Dosing

Studies on magnesium supplementation for sleep typically use 200-400mg of elemental magnesium. Thirdzy's 250mg dose falls within the optimal range for:

  • Sleep quality improvement: Multiple studies confirm this dose range

  • Muscle relaxation: Sufficient for post-exercise recovery

  • Stress reduction: Effective for lowering cortisol levels

  • Safety profile: Well below upper tolerable limits

Timing and Absorption Considerations

Thirdzy's evening formula timing maximizes magnesium bisglycinate absorption when your body needs it most for recovery.

  • Optimal timing: 30-60 minutes before bedtime allows absorption during sleep preparation 

  • Food interactions: Take away from high-fiber meals that can reduce absorption 

  • Calcium interactions: Separate from high-dose calcium supplements 

  • Consistency: Daily use provides cumulative benefits over time

Common Magnesium Deficiency Signs

Understanding magnesium deficiency helps explain why certain types of sleep supplements can be so effective for sleep and recovery. Many active individuals unknowingly suffer from suboptimal magnesium levels due to:

Exercise-Related Magnesium Loss

  • Sweat losses: Intense training depletes magnesium through perspiration 

  • Increased requirements: Active individuals need 10-20% more magnesium 

  • Stress factors: Training stress increases magnesium utilization 

  • Inadequate intake: Many diets provide insufficient magnesium

Signs of Magnesium Inadequacy

  • Sleep difficulties: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

  • Muscle tension: Cramps, twitches, or excessive soreness

  • Stress sensitivity: Heightened anxiety or irritability

  • Energy fluctuations: Fatigue despite adequate sleep

  • Recovery issues: Prolonged soreness or slow healing

Thirdzy's magnesium powder supplement for better rest addresses these issues while supporting overall recovery through its comprehensive formula.

Safety and Side Effects

Magnesium bisglycinate offers an excellent safety profile with minimal risk of side effects when used appropriately. This makes it suitable for long-term daily use in recovery-focused formulations.

Why Bisglycinate is Gentler

  • Chelated protection: Amino acid binding prevents stomach irritation 

  • Slower release: Gradual absorption reduces digestive overwhelm 

  • Natural form: Body recognizes and processes efficiently 

  • No laxative effect: Unlike other forms that cause loose stools

Interaction Considerations

Magnesium bisglycinate has few concerning interactions, but awareness helps optimize results:

  • Antibiotics: Separate dosing by 2-3 hours to prevent absorption interference 

  • Medications: Consult healthcare providers if taking prescription drugs 

  • Other supplements: Generally compatible with most nutrients 

  • Medical conditions: Those with kidney disease should monitor intake

Thirdzy's third-party tested formula ensures consistent potency and purity for safe daily use.

Quality Factors in Magnesium Bisglycinate Supplements

Not all magnesium bisglycinate supplements provide equal benefits. Quality factors significantly impact absorption, effectiveness, and overall value.

Manufacturing Quality Indicators

  • Chelation method: Proper chelation creates stable, bioavailable compounds 

  • Purity testing: Third-party verification ensures label accuracy 

  • Source quality: Premium raw materials provide better results 

  • Stability testing: Ensures potency throughout shelf life

What to Look for in Quality Supplements

  • Clear labeling: Specifies elemental magnesium content

  • Third-party testing: Verifies purity and potency

  • Proper packaging: Protects from light and moisture

  • Reputation: Established manufacturers with quality track records

Thirdzy meets all these quality standards while providing additional recovery-supporting ingredients in one convenient formula. For more details on how to select quality nutritional supplements, check out 5 Practical Tips to Help You Buy Better Supplements.

How to Maximize Magnesium Bisglycinate Benefits

Getting the most from magnesium bisglycinate supplementation requires attention to timing, lifestyle factors, and complementary practices that enhance effectiveness.

Lifestyle Factors That Enhance Magnesium Effectiveness

  • Consistent sleep schedule: Regular bedtime routines optimize magnesium's sleep benefits

  • Stress management: Reduced stress preserves magnesium stores 

  • Adequate hydration: Proper fluid balance supports mineral absorption 

  • Quality nutrition: Whole foods provide cofactors that enhance magnesium function

Creating an Effective Evening Routine

  1. Take magnesium bisglycinate 30-60 minutes before bed: Allows time for absorption

  2. Dim lights and reduce stimulation: Supports natural melatonin production

  3. Practice relaxation techniques: Enhances magnesium's calming effects

  4. Maintain cool bedroom temperature: Optimizes sleep quality

This comprehensive approach maximizes the benefits of Thirdzy's highly absorbable magnesium for sleep while supporting overall recovery.

Special Considerations for Athletes

Athletes and active individuals have unique magnesium needs that standard supplementation approaches often fail to address adequately.

Increased Magnesium Requirements

  • Training stress: Intense exercise increases magnesium utilization.

  • Sweat losses: Significant mineral depletion through perspiration. 

  • Recovery demands: Higher protein synthesis requires more magnesium. 

  • Sleep challenges: Training schedules and competition stress disrupt sleep.

Athletic Performance Benefits

Optimal magnesium status through quality supplementation supports:

  • Power output: Adequate magnesium enables proper muscle contraction.

  • Endurance capacity: Supports efficient energy metabolism.

  • Recovery speed: Faster restoration between training sessions.

  • Injury prevention: Proper muscle and nerve function reduces injury risk.

Thirdzy's nighttime recovery is specifically formulated for these elevated needs of athletes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are magnesium bisglycinate and magnesium glycinate the same thing?

Yes, they're the same compound with different naming conventions. Both refer to magnesium chelated to two glycine molecules.

How much magnesium bisglycinate should I take for sleep?

200-400mg of elemental magnesium is the research-supported range. Thirdzy provides 250mg, which is optimal for most individuals.

When should I take magnesium bisglycinate for best results?

Take 30-60 minutes before bedtime to allow absorption during your body's natural sleep preparation phase.

Can magnesium bisglycinate cause side effects?

This form is very well-tolerated with minimal side effects when taken at recommended doses. Some people may experience mild drowsiness.

Is it safe to take magnesium bisglycinate every night?

Yes, this form is safe for long-term daily use and often becomes more effective with consistent supplementation.

How does magnesium bisglycinate compare to other sleep aids?

Unlike melatonin or prescription sleep aids, magnesium supports your body's natural sleep processes without causing dependency or morning grogginess.

Can I take magnesium bisglycinate with other supplements?

Generally yes, though separate from high-dose calcium or take antibiotics 2-3 hours apart. Thirdzy's formula is designed for safe combination use.