magnesium is an essential mineral for our body, involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions. It is crucial for energy metabolism, the function of heart and muscle cells, and for bone health. In nature, magnesium occurs almost exclusively in compounds with various other elements. The range of magnesium supplements is similarly broad. But what makes, for example, Magnesium bisglycinate compared to Magnesium citrate especially? And why is magnesium oxide preferred in the treatment of constipation, while Magnesium sulfate in the Treatment of high blood pressure during pregnancy Application? In this series of articles, we will examine the different magnesium compounds and their specific benefits. Basic information about magnesium can be found in our introductory article "What is magnesium?". In this article we focus on the properties and applications of Magnesium oxide.
What is magnesium oxide?
Magnesium oxide (MgO), known as magnesia, is an inorganic compound of magnesium and oxygen. Due to its chemical and physical properties, it is widely used in industry, medicine, and as a dietary supplement.
It is a white, hygroscopic powder with a high melting point of about 2,800 °C. In the chemical industry, it is produced by firing magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide, resulting in pure MgO.
Under the Designation E 530 magnesium oxide is used in the food industry as an acidity regulator and as an anti-caking agent The reason for this is its chemical properties:
Magnesium oxide as an acid regulator
As an acidity regulator, magnesium oxide helps to To control the pH value of foodIt reacts with acids and neutralizes them, resulting in the stabilization of pH within an optimal range. This is important for maintaining the flavor, color, and texture of foods, as well as extending shelf life. By regulating acidity, manufacturers can ensure that their products retain the desired flavor and quality over longer periods of time. This is especially important in products prone to acidification or where acidity can affect the overall quality of the food.
Magnesium oxide as a release agent
Magnesium oxide is also used as an anti-caking agent to prevent powdered or granular foods from clumping together. It works by absorbing moisture and thereby preventing the formation of lumps. This property makes it particularly useful in Products such as baking powder, salt, sugar, dried milk products and spices, where it helps ensure products remain free-flowing and are easy to dose. Magnesium oxide as an anti-caking agent improves the handling and quality of food products by preserving their consistency and facilitating their processing and packaging.
Natural occurrence
In nature, magnesium oxide is found in the form of the mineral Periclase.It is a component of the Earth's mantle and occurs in metamorphic rocks. Due to its stability, MgO is an essential component in the composition of magnesium-rich rock-forming minerals.
Absorption of magnesium oxide
The bioavailability of magnesium oxide is lower compared to other magnesium salts such as magnesium citrate. The body absorbs MgO less efficiently, which must be taken into account when dosing.
Magnesium oxide as a dietary supplement
As a dietary supplement, magnesium oxide can be used for various purposes. In this article, we will show you the current research and explain the purposes for which magnesium oxide is suitable. For a deeper insight into the functions of magnesium in the body, you can read our What is magnesium Read the article.
Against constipation
Magnesium oxide is effective in treating constipation by acting as osmotic laxative Its action is based on its ability to bind water in the intestines, which leads to an increase in the water content in the stool. This process facilitates bowel movements in several ways:
- Water binding: Magnesium oxide draws water from the surrounding tissue into the intestine. This increases the volume of the intestinal contents and stimulates the intestinal walls, leading to a natural stimulation of intestinal activity.
- Softening of the stool: By increasing the water content in the stool, it becomes softer and therefore easier to pass. Softer stools can relieve the symptoms of constipation and facilitate excretion.
- Stimulation of intestinal motility: The increased intestinal contents caused by the additional water expand the intestinal walls and thereby stimulate peristalsis, the wave-like movements of the intestine that move stool through the digestive tract.
Magnesium oxide is often used in higher doses as a laxative, as it may not have the same osmotic effect at lower doses. It is particularly useful for people seeking rapid relief from constipation, as the effect typically occurs within a few hours to a day of ingestion.
Magnesium oxide for heartburn
Magnesium oxide works against heartburn by acting as Antacid acts, which the neutralizes excess stomach acid and thus relieves the symptoms of heartburn and stomach discomfort. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid enters the esophagus, causing a burning sensation behind the breastbone. Here are the key aspects of how magnesium oxide helps treat heartburn:
Neutralization of stomach acid
- Magnesium oxide reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomachto form magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and water (H2O). This reaction reduces acidity in the stomach and increases the pH, thereby reducing the burning and irritation caused by the acid.
Fast relief
- As an antacid, magnesium oxide provides fast relief from heartburn.The effect often occurs within a few minutes of ingestion because the powder or tablet dissolves quickly in the stomach and reacts with stomach acid.
Advantages over other antacids
- Compared to other antacids, magnesium oxide has the added benefit of providing magnesium, an essential mineral that many people don't get enough of through their diet. However, caution should be exercised when using magnesium oxide as an antacid, especially with long-term use, as it may lead to increased magnesium absorption, which could have side effects.
Did you know?
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the treatment of choice for reflux disease, or heartburn. They inhibit the cells in the stomach that are responsible for acid production. In some Studies It has been shown that people using PPIs are more likely lower magnesium levels However, the exact mechanism is not yet understood, as these patients also excrete little magnesium through the kidneys.
In the Everyday Essentials Bundle, you'll find three products for the most common deficiencies in humans. These include vitamin D, omega 3, and magnesium.
Magnesium oxide for migraines
Some studies suggest that the Supplementation with magnesium oxide can prevent migraine attacksMagnesium plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters and dilating blood vessels, which can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. study became Magnesium oxide compared with the drug valproateFor this purpose, 63 patients were treated for 8 weeks with daily 500mg magnesium oxide The result: Magnesium oxide was similarly effective in migraine prophylaxis as valproate, without significant side effects.
In addition to magnesium oxide, Magnesium citrate as helpful in migraine prophylaxis.
Forms of magnesium oxide
Magnesium oxide is available in various forms, including capsules and powder. The choice of form depends on individual preferences and specific health goals.
Magnesium oxide vs. magnesium citrate
While magnesium oxide has lower bioavailability, it is cheaper to produce than magnesium citrate. Magnesium citrate offers higher bioavailability, making it a preferred choice for quickly correcting magnesium deficiency. Magnesium citrate can also help with kidney stones.
Side effects of magnesium oxide
Taking magnesium oxide can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and diarrhea. These effects occur more frequently at high doses.
Overdose of magnesium oxide
An overdose of magnesium oxide can lead to hypermagnesemia, especially in people with impaired renal function. Symptoms of overdose may include a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and cardiac arrhythmias.If you want to know more about the topic, please read the article Magnesium overdose through.
Conclusion
Magnesium oxide is an important source of magnesium and offers valuable health benefits despite its lower bioavailability compared to other compounds such as magnesium citrateMagnesium oxide appears to be particularly effective in the treatment of constipation and heartburnWhen choosing a magnesium supplement, the individual absorption rate, possible side effects, and the purity of the molecules should be considered.
