What Is The Best Time To Take Magnesium?

Magnesium is an important and essential mineral that is involved in many aspects of your physical health. As a matter of fact, your body needs magnesium in order to perform some of its most basic functions (via WebMD). For instance, magnesium can help regulate your blood pressure, control your heart rate, and strengthen your bones. However, many Americans don't consume enough magnesium through food, which can lead to an elevation of inflammation in the body.

As it turns out, high inflammation is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and some types of cancer. Eating a magnesium-rich diet, however, can help prevent high blood pressure. That's why it's important to get enough magnesium in your diet by eating foods like nuts, beans, legumes, whole-grain cereals, and leafy green vegetables. While eating whole foods high in magnesium is always preferred, you can also take supplements to help increase your daily magnesium intake. 

According to Healthline, the daily recommended intake of magnesium is 310 to 420 milligrams a day for adults. If you're taking magnesium supplements, however, it doesn't matter what time of day you take them, as long as you take them consistently. Some people find that it's easier to remember to take magnesium supplements in the morning, while others prefer to take them at night before bed. Ultimately, the best time of day to take them is whenever it's most convenient for you.

That being said, it might be best to take magnesium supplements with food. While rare, magnesium is linked to some unpleasant side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Taking magnesium supplements with food, however, may help settle your stomach and prevent these digestive issues from occurring. If not, you should stop taking them and talk to your doctor about the best course of action. Since magnesium can also interact with some medications, you shouldn't take them at the same time. For instance, you should take antibiotics at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after taking magnesium supplements.