From the Guidelines
To minimize potential interference with magnesium absorption, it is recommended to take psyllium (Metamucil) and magnesium bisglycinate at least 2-3 hours apart. The mechanism of action of psyllium involves forming a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, which can physically bind to minerals like magnesium, potentially reducing their absorption 1. Although the provided evidence does not directly address the interaction between psyllium and magnesium bisglycinate, it is known that fiber supplements like psyllium can affect the absorption of various minerals 1.
Key Considerations
- Psyllium works by forming a gel-like substance that can bind to minerals, potentially reducing their absorption.
- Magnesium bisglycinate is generally well-absorbed due to its chelation to glycine amino acids, but simultaneous intake with fiber supplements might diminish this advantage.
- Separating the intake of these supplements by at least 2-3 hours can help minimize potential interactions.
- Taking magnesium supplements on an empty stomach or with a small meal may also optimize absorption.
Clinical Implications
Given the potential for psyllium to interfere with magnesium absorption, patients taking both supplements should be advised to space out their intake. This is particularly important for individuals relying on magnesium supplements for specific health conditions, as compromised absorption could impact the efficacy of the treatment. The American Gastroenterological Association's guidelines on the pharmacological management of chronic idiopathic constipation support the use of fiber supplements like psyllium and osmotic laxatives, including magnesium oxide, but do not directly address interactions between these agents and other supplements 1.
Practical Recommendations
- Take psyllium (Metamucil) and magnesium bisglycinate at least 2-3 hours apart to minimize potential interference with magnesium absorption.
- Consider taking magnesium bisglycinate on an empty stomach or with a small meal to optimize absorption.
- Maintain adequate hydration when using fiber supplements like psyllium, as recommended by clinical guidelines 1.
From the Research
Psyllium and Magnesium Bisglycinate Absorption
- There are no direct studies on the effect of psyllium (Metamucil) on the absorption of magnesium bisglycinate.
- However, studies have investigated the absorption of different magnesium compounds, including magnesium bisglycinate 2.
- Magnesium bisglycinate has been shown to have better intestinal absorption and bioavailability compared to other forms of magnesium, such as sucrosomial magnesium 2.
- The absorption of magnesium compounds can be influenced by various factors, including the type of magnesium compound, dose, and individual factors such as magnesium status 3.
- Other substances, such as drugs, can also interact with magnesium absorption and bioavailability 4.
- The bioavailability of magnesium from different sources, including magnesium citrate malate, has been assessed, but the extent of its bioavailability compared to other sources is not well established 5.
- Magnesium citrate has been found to be more bioavailable than other magnesium preparations, such as magnesium oxide, in some studies 6.