Does magnesium citrate help with stress? Everything you need to know

Achiel Schoemans
2026-02-27T17:00:14+01:00

Magnesium citrate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that supports your nervous system during stress. Discover how it works, when it's a good choice, and what to keep in mind.

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Magnesium citrate is one of the most researched forms of magnesium for stress-related complaints. But how exactly does it work, and when is it a good choice?

Why does stress deplete your magnesium reserves?

Magnesium and stress are linked in a vicious cycle. When your body experiences stress, it produces cortisol. In response, magnesium leaves the cells and is excreted in the urine. Your reserves decrease, and a lower magnesium level makes your nervous system more susceptible to new stress stimuli, leading to more cortisol production again.

A chronic latent magnesium deficiency, where levels are on the low side without a clinical deficiency, is remarkably common in people with prolonged stress. Supplementation can break this cycle, but the form you choose makes a difference.

What is magnesium citrate and how is it absorbed?

Magnesium citrate is a compound of magnesium with citric acid. This binding makes magnesium more water-soluble, which improves absorption in the intestine compared to cheaper forms like magnesium oxide. A significant portion of the ingested magnesium effectively enters the bloodstream and is available to your cells.

However, at higher dosages, magnesium citrate has a slight laxative effect. This can shorten transit time in the gut, somewhat limiting effective absorption. Gradual buildup and possibly spreading the dose throughout the day helps prevent this.

How does magnesium citrate help with stress?

Magnesium citrate supports the nervous system through multiple pathways. The mineral inhibits excessive activity in the nervous system via GABA receptors, the inhibitory neurotransmitter that calms your body. It also plays a role in regulating the HPA axis, the system that controls your stress response.

A special property of citrate is its slightly alkalizing effect. Stress leads to a slight acidification of the body, and magnesium citrate helps to compensate for this. Research shows that daily supplementation with magnesium citrate for several months can significantly reduce cortisol excretion in the urine. For those who want to combine magnesium citrate with other stress-supporting ingredients like ashwagandha and lemon balm, this can be found in Metis Anti-Stress 03.

Is magnesium citrate suitable for sleep problems due to stress?

For stress-related sleep problems, magnesium citrate is a sensible choice. It supports the nervous system and helps your body relax. An additional benefit is that citrate supports bowel movements, making it an interesting option for people who also suffer from sluggish bowel movements in addition to stress. If you naturally have regular bowel movements, opt for magnesium bisglycinate instead or gradually increase the dose.

Both forms support the nervous system, but in a slightly different way and with a different side effect profile.

Dosage and usage

The recommended daily allowance of magnesium for adults is around 300 to 400 mg per day from food and supplements combined. Supplements with magnesium citrate often contain between 100 and 200 mg of elemental magnesium per dose, allowing room to adjust intake to your needs.

When used for stress support, it is best to spread the dose throughout the day or take it with the evening meal. Magnesium does not work acutely. You will only notice the effect after two to four weeks of consistent use.

When is magnesium citrate less suitable?

Magnesium citrate is a versatile and well-researched form, but not the ideal choice for everyone. Those who are prone to diarrhea or have a sensitive gut may find that the laxative effect can be bothersome, even at normal dosages. Also, for those who want to use magnesium long-term without any impact on digestion, a chelate form such as magnesium bisglycinate is usually more comfortable.

Conclusion

Magnesium citrate is a well-absorbed form of magnesium that is effective for stress. Its slightly alkalizing effect and impact on cortisol regulation make it a strong choice for people who want to structurally support their stress system. Those with sensitive digestion should consider the mild laxative effect and gradually increase the dosage or opt for magnesium bisglycinate.

The right choice depends on your symptoms and how your body reacts. If in doubt, consult a doctor or dietitian, especially if your symptoms persist or if you are taking other medications.