Magnesium Compass
What Is Elemental Magnesium?
Elemental magnesium is the amount of magnesium itself supplied by a supplement—not the total weight of the compound it is attached to.
Why this fixes confusing comparisons
NIH states that the Supplement Facts panel declares elemental magnesium. That makes the panel a better comparison tool than large numbers printed elsewhere on packaging.
Practical rule
When two products use different forms, compare the declared elemental magnesium per serving first, then consider form, serving size, testing, tolerability and price.
Sources & next steps
Primary references: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Magnesium: Health Professional Fact Sheet and Magnesium: Consumer Fact Sheet. Product details should always be checked against the current merchant label before purchase.