Sandra, I will be quick - not much time right now. I take approx. 2-3 magnesium pills/day (250 mg) and also about 3/4 tsp. of epsom salts in my kefir drink each day. Epsom salts are not bad in tomato juice either. I am taking magnesium oxide right now, but have read that there are other kinds that are more absorbable (ie magnesium citrate) so I will switch to that when I get my next bottle. Perhaps with a more absorbable type, I won't have to take so much. You will know if you are taking too much if you get diarrhea.