April 24, 2026
Can you take magnesium glycinate while pregnant?
Can you take magnesium glycinate while pregnant?
Yes. Magnesium glycinate is one of the most commonly recommended forms of magnesium for pregnant people, and for good reason. It offers high bioavailability (estimated around 80%), which means your body can absorb and use it efficiently. It also tends to be significantly gentler on the digestive system compared to magnesium oxide or even magnesium citrate.
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Why glycinate specifically?
The "glycinate" part refers to the amino acid glycine, which is bound to the magnesium molecule. This chelated structure improves absorption in the gut and reduces the likelihood of GI side effects like diarrhea and bloating. In head-to-head comparisons, glycinate produced roughly 55% fewer cases of loose stools than magnesium oxide.
Glycine itself has calming properties, which makes magnesium glycinate a popular choice for pregnant people dealing with sleep difficulties, restlessness, or anxiety. Some providers specifically recommend this form for evening use because of the mild relaxation effect.
Dosing during pregnancy
The RDA for magnesium during pregnancy is 350-360 mg per day (from all sources, including diet). The tolerable upper intake level from supplements alone is 350 mg. If your prenatal already contains some magnesium, factor that into your total before adding a standalone supplement.
A 2020 clinical trial examining magnesium supplementation in pregnancy found no safety concerns at standard doses, with the primary side effect being mild gastrointestinal symptoms at higher doses.
RELATED: What to know about magnesium for postpartum
A note from WeNatal on can you take magnesium glycinate while pregnant
WeNatal Rest + Digest Magnesium combines a blend of magnesium glycinate, magnesium malate, magnesium citrate, and magnesium gluconate to support absorption and tolerability during pregnancy. It pairs well with WeNatal for Her as part of a complete prenatal routine. If you're experiencing cramps, sleep disruptions, or general tension, adding additional magnesium is a conversation worth having with your provider.
RELATED: Magnesium for better sleep and digestion: Benefits, best types, and Oura ring insights
References
de Araujo CAL, et al. (2020). Magnesium supplementation and preeclampsia in low-income pregnant women. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 20:208. DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-02877-0
Makrides M, et al. (2014). Magnesium supplementation in pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000937.pub2
