Published: July 18, 2025
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The one mineral that over 50% of Americans are deficient in… but that they desperately need. Here’s what it is and why it matters: 🧵

Image in tweet by Dr. Eric Berg

Over 48% of Americans are deficient in magnesium, and most don’t know it. NHANES data from the NIH shows nearly half of U.S. adults fall short of the recommended intake. Standard blood tests often miss it, since over 99% of magnesium is stored inside cells, not in the blood.

Magnesium supports over 300 enzyme reactions and helps with: • Energy production • Muscle and nerve function • Sleep and mood regulation • DNA and protein synthesis • Blood sugar and blood pressure control Deficiency affects sleep, stress, insulin sensitivity, and more.

Not all forms of magnesium are effective. Poorly absorbed types include: • Magnesium oxide • Magnesium sulfate • Magnesium carbonate • Magnesium hydroxide These can cause digestive issues, pass through the gut unabsorbed, and offer little benefit. So what’s the best form?

The best form is magnesium glycinate, made from magnesium and glycine, an amino acid with calming effects. It stands out for being: • Highly absorbable • Gentle on the stomach • Non-laxative • Effective even with low stomach acid • Safe with or without food

Key benefits of magnesium glycinate: • Promotes restful sleep • Relaxes muscles, prevents cramps • Supports steady, non-drowsy energy • Reduces anxiety, stabilizes mood • Helps manage blood pressure and insulin sensitivity • Lowers kidney stone risk by balancing calcium

The glycine in magnesium glycinate adds key benefits: • Calms neurotransmitters • Boosts cognition • Supports collagen and blood sugar • Enhances detoxification and fat absorption Together, magnesium and glycine form a powerful combination for stress relief and metabolism.

Here’s how to take it: • Best taken before bed to support sleep and relaxation. • Can also be taken during the day without causing drowsiness. • Works with or without food. • Typical dose: 100–400 mg daily, based on your needs. Want to get the most out of every dose?

Image in tweet by Dr. Eric Berg

For better absorption, choose magnesium glycinate combined with: • Vitamin D3 • Vitamin B6 Both improve magnesium uptake and how your cells use it. Note: Magnesium bisglycinate is the same as glycinate. Different name, same effect. But can you get enough from food alone?

Leafy greens are the best natural source of magnesium. It’s found at the center of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants. Top sources include: • Spinach • Kale • Swiss chard • Arugula You’ll also find magnesium in nuts (especially cashews), seeds, and fish.

Image in tweet by Dr. Eric Berg

But here’s a catch. Even with a healthy diet, many don’t absorb enough magnesium due to: • Depleted soil reducing magnesium in plants • Low stomach acid • Poor gut health • Stress, caffeine & certain medications that deplete it That’s why supplementation is often needed.

Magnesium glycinate is one of the most effective and well-tolerated forms of magnesium. If you experience stress, poor sleep, cramps, low energy, or metabolic issues, it could be what you’re missing. Learn more about magnesium glycinate in this video: https://youtu.be/OxCWlEJMS2U

A bit about me: I’m the creator of Healthy Keto® and Intermittent Fasting protocols, helping over 100M people make healthier choices. Follow me @dr_ericberg for more evidence-based insights to improve your health and longevity.

Thank you for reading! What is one key takeaway you gained from this thread? Share it in the comments below. If you have any health questions, feel free to ask. I read every comment and often use them to create future content that matters to you.

@dr_ericberg Magnesium is seriously underrated it plays a key role in muscle function, sleep quality, and stress management. Deficiency can lead to fatigue, cramps, and even anxiety. Prioritize it for overall health.

@Messorem37 Magnesium helps with muscles, sleep, and stress. Many people don’t get enough!

@dr_ericberg List foods high in magnesium glysinate

@MrCharlesMuckle Magnesium glycinate is a supplement form, not found naturally in foods, but magnesium itself is high in spinach, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and dark chocolate.

@dr_ericberg How long before you see the effects of taking magnesium, Dr. Eric?

@Aamishunchi21 We are all different. For some, they noticed a difference after a few days. While for some it took weeks.

@dr_ericberg Your thread is everybody's favorite! #TopUnroll https://threadreaderapp.com/th... 🙏🏼@KathyDS1234 for 🥇unroll

@dr_ericberg It's also Iodine 70% globally.

@dr_ericberg Thanks ☺️

@dr_ericberg What could I do for bone health to keep bones strong after taking medications that caused weakened or loss of bone marrow and have caused joint pain and arthritis symptoms

@dr_ericberg 🌱 🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔

@dr_ericberg You always say Mg😊

@dr_ericberg Thanks for the in-depth info. Can I take if I’m on a blood thinner?

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