Can I take magnesium and zinc together?
No official source gives a spacing rule for magnesium and zinc. The NIH notes one study in which very high doses of zinc from supplements, 142 mg a day, interfered with magnesium absorption and balance [1][2]. That amount is far above the NIH adult upper limit for zinc of 40 mg a day [2].
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What the sources say about magnesium and zinc
The NIH reports that one study found very high doses of zinc from supplements (142 mg a day) can interfere with magnesium absorption and disrupt magnesium balance in the body [1][2]. The NIH adult upper limit for zinc is 40 mg a day [2]. The NIH fact sheets do not describe magnesium affecting zinc absorption [1][2].
How to time them
No official source gives a spacing rule or a best time of day for taking magnesium and zinc. The interaction the NIH describes is tied to a very high daily zinc amount (142 mg), not to taking the two at the same time [1]. The NIH upper limits for adults are 350 mg a day of supplemental magnesium [1] and 40 mg a day of zinc [2]. For magnesium, the citrate, aspartate, lactate and chloride forms tend to be more bioavailable than oxide and sulfate [1].
Who should ask a doctor or pharmacist first
Ask your pharmacist first if you take antibiotics. Both minerals interact with tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics; the NIH says to take these antibiotics at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after a magnesium or zinc supplement [1][2]. Magnesium also lowers the absorption of oral bisphosphonates [1], zinc and penicillamine should be taken at least 1 hour apart [2], and thiazide diuretics increase zinc loss in urine [2]. People with impaired kidney function have a higher risk of magnesium toxicity [1].
Supin schedules what you take around each other
Supin puts what you take into a daily routine by time of day, follows each product's label, and reminds you.
Questions people ask next
Sources
- Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
- Zinc: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
Educational information, not medical advice, and not a recommendation for you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, combining or changing supplements, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or have a health condition. Supin sells a subscription, not supplements. Last reviewed .