Once upon a time, we would take sleeping pills when we couldn’t sleep. They worked well, but they made us groggy in the morning.
Today, people are turning to natural supplements to help them sleep. The supplements have a more organic feel and they do not cause grogginess. Many of them are beneficial to the body in other ways as well.
Magnesium is a supplement recommended for improving sleep. Read on to find out how it can benefit you.
What is Magnesium?
Magnesium plays a role in several of the body’s functions. It is essential to muscle and nerve function. It assists with the regulation of blood pressure and blood sugar. It helps build bones and DNA.
The supplement has also been shown to regulate neurotransmitters that relate directly to sleep. Magnesium glycinate and magnesium citrate specifically, may increase the number of neurotransmitters that have a calming effect helping you get a better night’s rest.
How Does Magnesium Help Sleep?
Studies have shown that magnesium can make it easier to fall asleep and get a better-quality sleep. It may also reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome, which can get in the way of a sound sleep.
However, it’s important to note that studies on magnesium and sleep are limited. And while it’s possible to get your magnesium levels tested to determine if that’s what’s causing a lack of sleep, there are people with low magnesium levels that sleep just fine.
How and When Should I Take Magnesium?
If you are using magnesium to improve your sleep quality, it’s recommended to take 200 mg of either magnesium glycinate or magnesium citrate about 30 minutes before bedtime. Experts warn individuals not to take more than the recommended amount as this won’t improve sleep, but it may upset the stomach. People should also stay away from magnesium oxide which is primarily a stool softener and won’t help insomnia.
Other Sleep Tips
In addition to taking magnesium, you will also get a good night’s sleep if you create a relaxing environment in your bedroom. The atmosphere should be cool and dark, and all devices should be shut off.
And if magnesium is not working, melatonin, valerian and chamomile tea are other natural remedies you may consider trying.
What Magnesium Should I Take?
There are many magnesium products on the market, but it’s important to source yours from a brand you can trust. That way you are guaranteed to get the utmost in potency and purity. Designs for Health’s MagCitrate Powder is recommended.
Designs for Health started out as a nutrition counseling and education service that eventually launched its own line of high-quality supplements. Its MagCitrate Powder provides 300mg of magnesium in each teaspoon. It comes in a great tasting lemon flavored powder that can be mixed with water and other beverages. In addition to promoting better sleep, it can also aid with digestion.
Tossing and turning all night is no fun. Fortunately, magnesium and other natural supplements can provide you with the support you need. Which will you be adding to your bedtime routine?
