Magnesium malate
Magnesium malate is magnesium combined with malic acid and is one of the organic forms of magnesium that is generally well tolerated. The range includes magnesium malate supplements in different formats: powder, capsules and tablets , including formulas with vitamin B6. When choosing a product, check the amount of elemental magnesium in the recommended daily serving - this is listed in the supplement information.
View Left Column
3 products
What is magnesium malate?
Magnesium malate is the magnesium salt of malic acid. Malic acid occurs naturally in fruit, particularly apples, and is involved in cellular metabolism.
Elemental magnesium accounts for roughly 15% of the compound by weight. This means that a product labelled “magnesium malate 1000 mg” may provide around 150 mg of magnesium. The exact amount is always listed in the supplement information under magnesium per daily serving, and this is the figure that should be used when comparing products.
Does magnesium malate provide more energy?
This is one of the most common claims about malate, so it is worth being precise. Malic acid does participate in the Krebs cycle, one of the processes involved in cellular energy production. However, there is no evidence that magnesium malate provides more energy than other forms of magnesium. There is also no authorised EU health claim for such an effect.
The authorised claim applies to magnesium itself: magnesium contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and normal muscle and nervous system function. For the same reason, advice to take malate specifically in the morning “for energy” is better considered a common practice rather than an established rule.
Powder, capsules or tablets
Magnesium malate powder is mixed with water. This format can be convenient for people who find capsules difficult to swallow, and the serving is easier to reduce when first starting. Powders are often flavoured and may include vitamin B6 - check the ingredients if you are looking for a product without sweeteners or flavourings.
Capsules and tablets are easier to carry, as nothing needs to be mixed and the serving is already measured. Before buying, check how many capsules or tablets make up the daily serving - because of the size of the malate compound, a serving may consist of several pieces.
Frequently asked questions
What is magnesium malate taken for?
To supplement magnesium intake when dietary intake is insufficient. Magnesium contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, electrolyte balance, and normal muscle and nervous system function. Malate is one of the forms in which magnesium can be supplied and is often chosen for its tolerability.
Is magnesium malate a chelate?
No. Chelates are compounds in which a mineral is bound to an amino acid. Malate is a salt of malic acid, which is not an amino acid. It is therefore described on the label as magnesium malate rather than a chelate.
How should magnesium malate be taken?
Take it with food and follow the serving instructions provided by the manufacturer. Powder is mixed with water, while capsules and tablets are swallowed with water. If you have not used magnesium before, follow the product directions and consider starting with a smaller serving if appropriate.
Does magnesium malate help with weight loss?
No. Magnesium malate does not directly affect body weight and is not a weight-loss product.
For general magnesium precautions and information about use alongside medicines, see the Magnesium page.
This information is for general reference and does not replace medical advice.