Can Magnesium Help You Sleep Better? One Woman’s Experience Suggests It Can

Danielle Sinai, a lifestyle writer, decided to test whether a magnesium supplement could help with the sleep issues she had battled for years. She didn’t consult a doctor or change her routine, but simply added a scoop of magnesium powder to her nightly ritual. She wasn’t expecting a miracle, but on the very first night, she noticed deeper sleep. Within a short time, her nighttime awakenings became less frequent. “I expected a small improvement,” she wrote, “but what I got was a complete shift.”

Unlike many who take magnesium in capsule form, Sinai chose a water-soluble powder. Dietitian Amy Davis explains that powders absorb more quickly and efficiently and can be adjusted based on individual needs. The benefits didn’t stop at better sleep. Sinai, who also deals with attention and focus issues and takes daily medication, was able to reduce her dosage by 10 mg. “I didn’t expect that at all, but it happened,” she shared.

According to Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, magnesium helps the body relax, supports melatonin production, eases muscle tension, and lowers stress. It also encourages the production of neurotransmitters like GABA, which promote overall calm. Many people, he says, are magnesium-deficient without realizing it, and supplementation can help with a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue to anxiety.

The recommended daily intake for adults is up to 350 mg, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider. Side effects are rare but can include stomach discomfort or diarrhea. Those with kidney issues should consult a doctor before taking magnesium.

“It didn’t solve all my problems,” Sinai concluded, “but it helped me sleep better, and ultimately, that changed my days too.”