Though magnesium is needed for more than 300 essential biochemical reactions, the recommended dietary allowance criterion for magnesium is not met by more than 50% of the US population.

The term 'chelate' refers to a complex compound comprising a central metal atom, which is attached to a ligand (large molecule) in a ring structure. In case of magnesium amino acid chelate supplements, magnesium is bonded to an amino acid containing nitrogen. In magnesium glycinate supplements, magnesium is attached to an amino acid called glycine. This supplement is prescribed for people affected by a magnesium deficiency. It is believed that this true chelated form of magnesium has better absorption or bioavailability, as it is stable and doesn't break down in the stomach. The human body easily identifies the amino acid glycine. Magnesium is easily carried with glycine (its amino acid ligand) into the intestinal wall, without undergoing any change. It reaches the intestine in the form in which it was ingested. Moreover, magnesium glycinate molecule is small, as there is less magnesium by weight on account of glycine being a large molecule. Therefore, it can be easily transported into the cell itself. This supplement is prescribed for those who are either affected by a magnesium deficiency due to poor diet or affected by medical conditions that affect the absorption of this mineral. For instance, the use of diuretics or water pills can cause the body to lose essential nutrients. In such cases, one needs to compensate for the loss of the mineral. The absorption of this mineral can also be affected adversely due to alcohol abuse, severe vomiting/diarrhea, or medical conditions that affect the absorption of nutrients. If diabetes is not managed properly, it can also affect magnesium levels. Magnesium is often referred to as a relaxation mineral due to its ability to provide relaxation. It counteracts calcium at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. As the NDMA receptors get activated, an ion channel opens. This ion channel is blocked by magnesium ions. This facilitates the passage of sodium ions and a small amount of calcium ions into the cell, as well as the passage of potassium out of the cell. While calcium causes contractions, magnesium causes relaxation. If there's too much calcium without the required levels of magnesium, the nerve cells of the brain can get irritated. Excess calcium can also cause skeletal muscles to contract. If calcium levels are high and magnesium levels are low, one can experience persistent muscle spasms or twitches. Low magnesium levels can lead to hyper excitability of the nerves, which can adversely affect sleep. In a study conducted by USDA's Human Nutrition Research Center in North Dakota, majority of subjects affected by long-term insomnia or abnormal brain waves during sleep were found to be deficient in magnesium. Glycine is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which works as a co-agonist of glutamate for activating NMDA receptors. It is believed that it can enhance the activity of neurotransmitters that play a vital role in memory and cognition. There's some evidence that suggests that taking glycine before bedtime can promote good sleep and reduce anxiety and daytime sleepiness. It is believed that glycine promotes the calming effect of magnesium. It has been observed that glycine-bound magnesium is less likely to cause laxative effects than other magnesium supplements. This supplement is categorized under FDA pregnancy category C, which means that animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there's a lack of well-controlled studies in humans. In such cases, the drug or supplement might be prescribed, only if potential benefits outweigh the risks. Similarly, it is not known if the drug can pass into the breast milk. Thus, pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid its use. This drug should also be avoided by people affected by kidney disease or those who are allergic to the ingredients of the supplement. Do inform your doctor if: ➠ you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. ➠ you are taking any other drugs. ➠ you are diabetic. ➠ you have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. ➠ you are malnourished. ➠ you drink large amounts of alcohol. Though there's less likelihood of one developing a serious allergic reaction to this magnesium amino acid chelate, medical assistance must be immediately sought if one experiences the following symptoms: ➠ Hives/Rash ➠ Itching ➠ Swelling of the face/tongue/throat ➠ Lightheadedness ➠ Trouble in breathing Though magnesium glycinate is not very likely to cause diarrhea, inform your doctor if you experience an upset stomach and diarrhea.