What is L-Threonate?
L-threonate is a metabolite of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) found naturally in the body and in foods like mushrooms, fruit juice, and processed meats. When bonded with magnesium, it forms magnesium L-threonate, a patented compound known as MagteinĀ®, renowned for its ability to cross the bloodābrain barrier and increase brain magnesium levelsāsomething traditional magnesium supplements often fail to do.
What Compounds Are in It?
The study focused on a formula known as MagteinĀ®PS, which includes:
- Magnesium L-threonate (400 mg)
- Phosphatidylserine (50 mg)
- Vitamin D3 (80 IU)
- Vitamin C (12 mg)
- Vitamin B6 (4 mg)
This combination was specifically designed to support brain health by improving magnesium delivery, promoting neuron health, and supporting overall cognitive function.
Why Do We Need It?
Magnesium is vital for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, particularly in the nervous system. However, brain magnesium levels tend to decline with age and stress. Traditional magnesium supplements (like citrate or sulfate) have poor brain bioavailability.
Magnesium L-threonate (MagteinĀ®) was developed to increase brain magnesium levels, which is crucial for:
- Enhancing synaptic connections
- Activating NMDA receptors
- Improving memory and learning
- Reducing age-related cognitive decline
Uses and Benefits of L-Threonate
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Improved Memory and Learning
A 30-day, double-blind clinical study involving 109 healthy adults in China found significant cognitive improvements in those taking MagteinĀ®PS. Participants scored higher across all 5 memory subtests, including:
- Directed memory
- Paired-association learning
- Picture recall
- Figure recognition
- Portrait-feature memory
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Cognitive Boost for All Ages
All age groups benefited, but older adults showed the greatest improvements, suggesting potential for age-related memory support.
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Supports Brain Structure and Function
Phosphatidylserine and vitamin B6 enhance neuron function and magnesium absorption, while vitamins C and D help maintain nerve integrity and mental clarity.
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Safe and Well-Tolerated
No adverse effects were reported during the trial. Blood pressure, heart rate, and biochemical markers remained stable.
Potential Applications Beyond Memory
L-threonate's ability to increase brain magnesium may help support:
- Stress and anxiety management
- Neurological health (e.g., Alzheimerās, dementia)
- Sleep quality
- Focus and attention span
Researchers have also hypothesized that increased brain magnesium could reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, potentially offering long-term brain protection.
References
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Zhang, C., Hu, Q., Li, S., et al. (2022). A MagteinĀ®, Magnesium L-Threonate-Based Formula Improves Brain Cognitive Functions in Healthy Chinese Adults. Nutrients, 14(5235). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14245235