Does magnesium really help with poor sleep? This is what we know

Magnesium has become a staple in the sleep aids section. The mineral plays a role in muscle and nerve function, and a deficiency can be accompanied by restlessness and poor sleep.

That's where the nuance lies. In people with a proven deficiency, supplementation can help. In people who already get enough, the evidence that an extra pill improves sleep is much weaker.

Most people get enough magnesium from a varied diet including nuts, whole grains, legumes and green vegetables. Those who still want to supplement should choose a low dose and pay attention to their bowel movements: too much magnesium has a laxative effect.