The Role of Magnesium In Sleep

It's estimated that almost half of the entire US population does not get the minimum recommended daily intake of magnesium (1).

With over 40% of Americans getting less than the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night (2), it got us curious about the role magnesium plays in sleep.

This article will explore the role of magnesium on sleep.

Before we jump into this article, if you're interested in a magnesium supplement, check out our Magnositol formula, a magnesium powder supplement for sleep.

Why Is Magnesium Important?

According to the National Institutes of Health, magnesium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is responsible for over 300 unique enzymatic processes (3).

It is considered an essential mineral, which means it is not naturally produced in the body, and is only supplied when consumed through diet or supplementation (4).

Magnesium plays a role in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar balancing, regulating blood pressure, energy production and bone development.

Magnesium can be found in a wide variety of plant and animal based foods, including in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

The Role of Magnesium in Sleep

It is not unusual for someone with low levels of magnesium to experience restless sleep.

According to sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus, “Maintaining healthy magnesium levels often leads to deeper, more sound sleep.”

He goes on to explain that magnesium plays a role in maintaining healthy levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep.

This coincides with scientific research, which shows that magnesium may help to improve sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and sleep onset (5).

Another trial looked at magnesium intake and symptoms of poor sleep.

They found a correlation between higher intakes of magnesium consumption and lower levels of symptoms often associated with poor sleep (6).

In other words, the more magnesium consumed, the better the subjects slept.

How Much Magnesium Do I Need to Take?

The answer to that question varies based on your circumstances.

According to the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), the average dose for most adults is between 310-420 mg per day (7).

The amount needed will vary based on your age, height, body weight, gender, medications, and diet.

It is important to note that the RDA is a base level to avoid deficiency diseases, and are not doses that necessarily lead to optimal health.

In the case of the doses used in the various sleep studies, the dosages range between 320 mg - 500 mg per day.

A well-known side effect of magnesium supplementation is diarrhea. It should be noted that this tends to occur with the cheaper magnesium citrate form of magnesium.

Where To Get Magnesium?

If you feel like you could benefit from additional magnesium at bedtime, Utzy Naturals offers an easy to absorb form of magnesium called Magnositol.

Magnositol provides 200mg per scoop. It also contains inositol, a nutrient in the vitamin B complex that is thought to help relax the brain.

Magnesium and inositol is the perfect combination to relax the body and brain before bedtime.

Simply add a scoop of Magnositol to a glass of water and enjoy. It's a great magnesium supplement to take before bed to help support sleep quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key takeaways from this article?

The article provides evidence-based insights and practical recommendations. Focus on the strategies most relevant to your current health goals and implement changes gradually.

How does this information apply to me?

The relevance depends on your individual health status, goals, and any existing conditions. The article provides general guidance that can be personalized with the help of a healthcare provider.

What should I do next?

Review the specific recommendations in the article, consider any relevant lab testing, and discuss changes to your supplement routine with your healthcare provider.