If you’re tossing and turning at night, counting sheep, staring at the ceiling, and maybe — just maybe — you’ve heard someone on TikTok say magnesium could be the answer to your bedtime struggles. But does it actually help you sleep?
Here, we’re going to find out together. Scroll on to discover the answer to that recent burning question: does magnesium help you sleep?
what is magnesium?
First things first, it’s worth understanding what magnesium actually is. Magnesium is one of those minerals that quietly does a million different jobs in your body. It helps with muscle function, nerve signals, energy levels, and yep, sleep. It’s a bit like your body’s behind-the-scenes relaxation fairy.
Having low magnesium levels has been linked to keep sleep issues such as insomnia, restless legs, anxiety, and poor-quality sleep in general. Not ideal when you’re just trying to get your eight hours without waking up feeling like a zombie.
how does magnesium help you sleep?
Magnesium helps regulate melatonin (that’s your sleep hormone), and it also chills out your nervous system by supporting GABA, a brain chemical that encourages relaxation.
Translation: magnesium = fewer racing thoughts at night and more chance of nodding off peacefully.
Some people swear by magnesium supplements or sprays before bed, while others get their fix through magnesium-rich foods like:
- Dark chocolate (yes please)
- Almonds
- Spinach
- Avocados
- Bananas
It’s not a magic wand, but for some, magnesium can make a noticeable difference.
can you have too much magnesium?
Yep – and it’s something to watch out for. While magnesium is generally safe when taken in sensible doses, going overboard (especially with supplements) can come with some not-so-fun side effects.
The main one? Stomach upset. We’re talking diarrhoea, bloating, and cramps — especially with forms like magnesium citrate or oxide. In fact, magnesium oxide is known for its ahem laxative effects, which is great if that’s what you’re after… less so if you’re just trying to relax.
Too much magnesium can also cause low blood pressure, dizziness, or in rare cases (usually in people with kidney issues), it can affect your heart and breathing.
The general rule? Don’t overdo it. Stick to recommended amounts and always have a word with your GP if you’re unsure or already taking other medications. Balance is key — especially when you're just trying to get some decent kip.
but let’s not forget the mattress…
Look, you can pop all the magnesium in the world, but if you’re sleeping on a worn out, old mattress that creaks every time you move, traps heat, or leaves your back in bits by morning, no supplement's going to save your sleep.
A good night’s kip starts with the basics: a supportive mattress that suits your body and keeps you comfy all night long. Cooling materials, pressure relief, proper support — these things matter just as much as your evening routine.
Your body can only relax if your bed lets it.
a few sleep tips to go with your magnesium
If you’re keen to try magnesium for sleep, here are some general tips to help you
- Try magnesium an hour before bed – spray, supplement, or a mug of warm milk with a banana.
- Ditch the screens – TikTok can wait, honestly.
- Stick to a routine – your body loves a bit of consistency.
- Invest in your bed setup – from the mattress to your pillows and bedding, it all makes a difference.
FAQs: magnesium & sleep
Before we sign off, we wanted to answer a few of the FAQs that may still be lingering. Read on to find out more.
Will magnesium knock me out straight away?
Not quite. Magnesium isn’t a sleeping tablet — its’ effects are more like a gentle nudge towards relaxation. You might not feel instantly sleepy, but many people notice they fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer after a few days or weeks of taking magnesium on a regular basis.
What type of magnesium is best for sleep?
There are loads of types, but magnesium glycinate and magnesium citrate are often the go-tos for better sleep. Glycinate is especially calming. Avoid magnesium oxide – it’s not well absorbed and, let’s be honest, mostly just gets things moving… in the bathroom.
Can I get enough magnesium from food alone?
If you’re eating a well-balanced diet, maybe. But with today’s demanding lifestyles, many of us fall short. If you’re struggling to sleep, a supplement might help top you up — or try a relaxing magnesium bath soak or spray before bed.
Is it safe to take magnesium every night?
For most people, yes. But don’t overdo it — too much can result in, well... toilet trouble. Always check with your GP if you’re on other medications or have health conditions, just to make sure that taking magnesium supplements is safe for you.
If I take magnesium but still can’t sleep, what else can I do?
Magnesium can help with sleep, but it’s only a bit of the whole picture. Check your bedtime routine, cut screen time, and look at your sleep environment. Honestly, if your mattress is lumpy or overheating you, that could be the real culprit.
final thoughts: magnesium helps, but your mattress matters more
So yes, magnesium can absolutely help some people drift off more easily and stay asleep longer. But it’s not a miracle cure. Think of it as part of the whole sleep puzzle—right alongside a quiet room, a calm mind, and a top-notch mattress.
If your bed’s seen better days and you’re waking up more knackered than when you went to sleep, it might be time to sort that out. We can help with that.
Explore our range of sleep-friendly mattresses designed to keep you cool, comfy, and well-rested—magnesium or not.
Until next time, eve Sleep.
