Long-lasting fatigue, stress, repeated small infections: many French people are turning to supplement treatments. Faced with the tablets of
magnesium and of
vitamin Chowever, one question often arises: can we take them together without risk?
To find out more, we interviewed Dr Aurélien Tesson, doctor of pharmacy. He explains that the association
magnesium and vitamin C can be of real interest, provided that you respect a few simple rules, particularly regarding doses and digestive tolerance. The answer is less complicated than you think.
Magnesium and vitamin C: two nutrients not to be confused
ANSES explains it as follows: “Vitamin C helps consolidate collagen fibers, which make up the connective tissue which supports cells and thus structures other tissues. It is involved in the synthesis of molecules involved in nerve transmission. It provides a protective role for tissues by capturing oxidizing substances. Finally, it facilitates the absorption of non-heme iron (present in foods of plant origin such as legumes or nuts)”.
THE magnesiumthe eleventh most abundant element in the body, is involved in more than three hundred enzymatic systems. ANSES summarizes its action: “It participates in energy production (…) helps maintain cell membrane potential, regulates potassium flow and plays a central role in calcium metabolism.”
Taking magnesium and vitamin C together: what the pharmacist says
Asked about this association, Dr Aurélien Tesson is very clear: “Yes, you can take magnesium and vitamin C together without danger”he explains to True Medical. For him, no adverse interactions have been described at the usual doses used as a food supplement.
He even details the strengths of this duo:
“These two nutrients are complementary: vitamin C supports immunity and energy, while magnesium helps relax the body and fight against fatigue and stress. There is no known negative interaction between them, and taking them together can even reinforce their respective benefits. As a pharmacist, I advise, however, to respect the recommended doses, because an excess can lead to digestive disorders, especially in sensitive people. It is better to favor intake through food, but supplementation can be useful in case of deficiency or period of great fatigue”.
How to combine magnesium and vitamin C without misstep?
In practice, the pharmacist advises following the dosages listed on the packaging, without multiplying supplements in parallel. We can swallow
magnesium and vitamin C togetherduring a meal, in the morning or at midday; vitamin C has not shown any exciting effect, and magnesium also lends itself well to taking in the evening.
The only real known vigilance: certain antibiotics from the tetracycline family must be taken at least two hours away from a magnesium-rich intake.
“In the event of diarrhea or stomach aches, it is useful to reduce the dose or change the form, and to check with your doctor or pharmacist”.