Magnesium

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Common questions

Is Magnesium healthy?

Magnesium scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This magnesium supplement contains magnesium oxide, which is a common and cost-effective form of magnesium, though it has lower bioavailability compared to other forms.

How processed is Magnesium?

Magnesium is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Magnesium's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Magnesium Oxide counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Magnesium

Boots
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Sycamore Partners
Category Magnesium
Summary

This magnesium supplement contains magnesium oxide, which is a common and cost-effective form of magnesium, though it has lower bioavailability compared to other forms. The presence of magnesium stearate, a controversial additive, may interfere with nutrient absorption, and the use of several other additives like cellulose and talc suggests a moderate level of processing. These factors contribute to a mixed evaluation of the product's formulation quality.

Key ingredients 8

Magnesium Oxide
Good

Magnesium oxide is a common form of magnesium used in supplements to support bone health and muscle function. It is a cost-effective source of magnesium, although it has lower bioavailability compared to other forms. Despite this, it is widely used due to its high magnesium content per weight.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea.

Benefits

Provides essential magnesium which is crucial for numerous bodily functions including nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

See more about Magnesium Oxide →
Cellulose
Neutral

Cellulose is used as a bulking agent and stabilizer in supplements. It is derived from plant cell walls and is considered safe for consumption. It does not provide nutritional benefits but aids in the structural integrity of the tablet.

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Calcium Carbonate
Neutral

Calcium carbonate is often used as a calcium supplement and antacid. It is a cost-effective source of calcium but requires stomach acid for absorption, which may be less effective in some individuals. It is commonly used in supplements for bone health.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia and kidney stones.

Benefits

Provides calcium which is essential for bone health and various metabolic functions.

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Magnesium Stearate
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

May interfere with the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract.

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Cross-linked Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose
Neutral

This ingredient is used as a disintegrant to help tablets dissolve properly in the digestive system. It is a chemically modified cellulose derivative and is generally recognized as safe. It does not contribute nutritional value but ensures the effectiveness of the supplement.

Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
Neutral

Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose is used as a coating agent and stabilizer in supplements. It is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose and is considered safe for consumption. It helps in controlling the release of active ingredients in the body.

Polyvinyl Alcohol
Neutral

Polyvinyl alcohol is used as a film-forming agent in supplements to provide a protective coating. It is a synthetic polymer and is generally recognized as safe for use in food and pharmaceuticals. It does not provide nutritional benefits but enhances the stability of the product.

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Talc
Neutral

Talc is used as an anti-caking agent in supplements to prevent clumping. It is a naturally occurring mineral and is generally recognized as safe in small amounts. It does not contribute nutritional value but aids in the manufacturing process.

Risks

Inhalation of talc can be harmful, but this is not a concern in tablet form.

See more about Talc →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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