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Is it OK to take magnesium glycinate while pregnant?

Understanding Magnesium Glycinate During Pregnancy
As pregnancy brings about numerous physiological changes, the nutritional needs of expectant mothers also evolve. One mineral that often comes into focus is magnesium, particularly in its glycinate form. But is it safe to take magnesium glycinate while pregnant? The answer is nuanced and requires a closer look at both the benefits and considerations.
The Role of Magnesium in Pregnancy
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. It is also vital for protein synthesis and the production of DNA and RNA. During pregnancy, adequate magnesium levels are crucial as they may help reduce the risk of complications such as fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ failure.
Dietary Sources vs. Supplementation
For many women, a balanced diet rich in magnesium can meet the increased requirements during pregnancy. Foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are excellent sources of this mineral. According to experts, most pregnant women may not need to take magnesium supplements if they maintain a healthy, varied diet. However, some women, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds or with specific dietary restrictions, may find it challenging to achieve adequate magnesium intake through food alone.
Magnesium Glycinate: A Preferred Option
When supplementation is necessary, magnesium glycinate is often recommended due to its high bioavailability and lower likelihood of causing gastrointestinal discomfort compared to other forms of magnesium. This form is particularly noted for its potential benefits in reducing the risk of preeclampsia. Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation during pregnancy can be beneficial, especially for those who are at risk of deficiency.
Safety and Recommendations
While magnesium glycinate is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is essential for expectant mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any supplement. This is particularly important as individual health conditions and dietary needs can vary significantly. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on a woman’s specific circumstances, ensuring both maternal and fetal health are prioritized.
Conclusion
In summary, magnesium glycinate can be a safe and effective supplement for pregnant women, particularly for those who may not be getting enough magnesium from their diet. However, as with any supplement during pregnancy, it is crucial to seek medical advice to tailor the approach to individual health needs. By doing so, expectant mothers can support their health and that of their developing baby effectively.

Who should avoid magnesium glycinate?

Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed.

What vitamins cannot be mixed with magnesium?

Take magnesium and calcium separately to maintain an effective balance. Too much calcium can prevent magnesium absorption, potentially leading to health disorders. Avoid combining green tea with iron supplements or iron-rich foods.

How does magnesium affect the fetus?

Many women, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have intakes of magnesium below recommended levels. Magnesium supplementation during pregnancy may be able to reduce growth restriction of the fetus and pre‐eclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy), and increase birthweight.

Does magnesium glycinate stall labor?

Magnesium does not reduce preterm birth or improve the outcome for the infant when given to women after contractions of preterm labour have been stopped. Babies born preterm, before 37 weeks of pregnancy, may not survive or they may have later physical health and developmental problems if they do survive.

Does magnesium glycinate make you more fertile?

Magnesium Glycinate: Known for its gentle effect on the stomach, magnesium glycinate is a popular choice for fertility support. Magnesium Citrate: This form of magnesium is easily absorbed by the body and may help regulate hormones related to fertility.

Is magnesium glycinate safe during pregnancy?

Various studies have shown a significant difference when mothers take magnesium during pregnancy. Magnesium supplements provide a healthy top-up of the mineral, which encourages the healthy growth of your baby and reduces pregnancy complications.

Is it safe to take magnesium capsules while pregnant?

Magnesium during pregnancy is important for almost every system in your body – and your baby’s body. Depending on your age, you need anywhere from 350 to 400 milligrams of magnesium every day while you’re pregnant. It’s pretty easy to get your daily requirement with a healthy, varied diet.

Does magnesium glycinate help you get pregnant?

Magnesium Glycinate: Known for its gentle effect on the stomach, magnesium glycinate is a popular choice for fertility support. Magnesium Citrate: This form of magnesium is easily absorbed by the body and may help regulate hormones related to fertility.

Which form of magnesium is best for pregnancy?

Forms of Magnesium We Recommend

  • Magnesium glycincate (or bisglycinate) is magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine.
  • Magnesium citrate is also well absorbed, but it can have a laxative effect and, therefore, may be used for occasional constipation relief.

What are the bad things about magnesium glycinate?

Taking magnesium supplements such as magnesium glycinate can cause side effects, including nausea and abdominal pain. In larger quantities, it can also cause diarrhea and more severe side effects, such as an irregular heartbeat, extreme hypotension, and cardiac arrest.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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