ThreoTech’s brain-targeting magnesium “rejuvenates aging pathways”

Amid a growing demand for magnesium supplements, ThreoTech highlights its Magtein, a highly available form of the mineral with EU novel food status. The company states that Magtein enhances neuron signaling, helps form new neural connections, and “keeps the brain young” by rejuvenating aging pathways — supporting memory, focus, mood, and sleep quality.

In contrast, most commercially available forms of magnesium struggle to deliver real benefits for cognitive health because they fail to effectively and efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier. 

Following commercial success in the US, Magtein was awarded novel food approval in the EU last year, with AIDP and its partner company ThreoTech granted exclusive marketing rights for five years. ThreoTech markets the ingredient around the world.

Nutrition Insight spoke with Laurentia Guesman, business director at ThreoTech, at the recent SupplySide Global trade show (Oct 29–30) in Las Vegas, US, to explore the company’s flagship product. “It has become a highly successful ingredient for us, especially since cognitive health has become a significant trend following the COVID-19 pandemic. People are struggling with brain fog, sleep, and overall mental clarity, so they’re looking for that extra cognitive support.”

What makes Magtein unique compared to other magnesium compounds?

Guesman: Magtein’s chemical name is magnesium L-threonate, and it’s the threonate part that makes it special. It helps open magnesium channels in the brain, allowing magnesium to cross the blood-brain barrier. Once there, it helps neurons communicate more efficiently, rejuvenates older connections, and supports the creation of new ones. Essentially, it helps your brain “act younger” — improving mood, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Laurentia Guesman, business director at ThreoTech, tells us about the company’s Magtein ingredient at SupplySide Global.We have a family of patents worldwide. The compound was discovered by a scientist who remains actively involved — he leads our clinical program. The mechanism behind Magtein has been validated in humans. We’re doing cognitive, sleep, and biological testing to show exactly how it works.

What can consumers expect when including Magtein in their daily routines?

Guesman: Personally, I noticed deeper sleep after two or three days of taking it — waking up feeling refreshed, for instance. Beyond the science, we have a lot of testimonial data. Consumers report less brain fog, better moods, improved focus and productivity, and sharper memory and cognition — their brains just feel younger and more balanced.

Are you exploring gender differences in brain health or women’s health applications?

Guesman: For now, our research includes both men and women to build a strong general understanding. But we know hormones and emotions play a big role in women’s health at different life stages, like menopause. Overall, though, most people — regardless of gender — aren’t getting enough magnesium, whether due to processed diets or depleted minerals in the soil.

Beyond cognitive and sleep benefits, are there other health effects?

Guesman: Magnesium plays a role in over 300 cellular reactions, so it’s essential for many body systems. While our focus is cognitive health, brain health is deeply tied to longevity, immunity, and overall well-being — so by supporting the brain, you’re supporting multiple systems.

Magtein has been found to support better memory, cognition, mood, sleep, and cognitive lifespans.One interesting finding from our studies was around “cognitive fluctuation.” As people age, they experience both good and bad brain days — periods of fogginess or inconsistency. Participants taking Magtein had fewer fluctuations, maintaining more stable cognitive performance and clearer thinking.

How can consumers take Magtein, and what applications are most popular?

Guesman: Magtein is a water-soluble, tasteless powder — that’s rare for magnesium. It blends easily into beverages and other delivery systems. It started as a capsule ingredient, but now we’re seeing innovation in on-the-go and functional formats — drinks, tinctures, chewables, and even bars. It’s been exciting to see beverage brands launch with Magtein.

Are you studying synergistic combinations with other ingredients?

Guesman: Yes. In one study, we combined Magtein with phosphatidylserine, B vitamins, and vitamins C and D. The blend showed significant improvements in memory and cognition, including the ability to recall faces and daily details. We’re exploring more synergy opportunities because Magtein works across multiple pathways.

How has Magtein been received at SupplySide Global?

Guesman: The response has been great. People are excited about our new science. We’ve been busy meeting global customers, as we’re also responsible for regulatory registrations in new markets. We’ve recently received approval in Europe, and approvals in the UK, Australia, and Brazil are coming soon. It has already been approved in North America and Canada, and we’re expanding to India and Thailand as well.