Life Kit: Health
Can magnesium help you sleep?
Sep 10, 2024
Maria Godoy, an NPR health correspondent, dives into the viral TikTok trend of the 'sleepy girl mocktail,' a blend touted for its sleep-enhancing properties. She explores magnesium's crucial role in enhancing sleep quality and its influence on melatonin and cortisol levels. While some sleep specialists are skeptical about its effectiveness, Godoy emphasizes the importance of a magnesium-rich diet for natural sleep improvement. The discussion also touches on essential sleep hygiene practices to create a better sleep environment.
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Quick takeaways
- Magnesium may aid sleep by calming nerves and relaxing muscles, but scientific evidence remains inconclusive and highlights the need for more research.
- While supplementation is popular, experts recommend prioritizing magnesium intake through diet and maintaining good sleep hygiene for better sleep quality.
Deep dives
Understanding Magnesium's Role in Sleep
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a significant role in various bodily functions, including the regulation of blood sugar levels, nervous system support, and muscle relaxation. In the context of sleep, magnesium has gained attention due to its inclusion in popular recipes like the 'sleepy girl mocktail,' which combines magnesium powder, tart cherry juice, and sparkling water. While some studies suggest a potential connection between magnesium and improved sleep, the evidence is inconclusive, leading experts to emphasize the need for more rigorous research. Current hypotheses suggest that magnesium may calm nerves, relax muscles, and influence melatonin production, but definitive conclusions cannot yet be drawn.
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