TikTok has become a hotspot for health and wellness trends, with magnesium emerging as the latest must-have supplement for sleep.
On the platform, with over 357,000 posts under the hashtag #magnesium discussing its benefits, the buzz is undeniable—but should we believe the hype?
As three in five say they’ve seen health and wellness misinformation on the app, Martin Seeley, Senior Sleep Expert at MattressNextDay, has shared insight into whether magnesium is truly a game-changer for sleep, teaming up with the experts at natural health company BetterYou to explore the health benefits of the supplement.
What Are The Primary Functions Of Magnesium In The Body? What Are the Symptoms Of A Deficiency?
Magnesium is an abundant mineral in the body and has many benefits including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure². It often naturally occurs in foods like leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and seeds; however, supplements can help people meet their daily requirements. “It’s estimated at least 1 in 5 people in the UK are not getting enough Magnesium with teenage girls and adults over 50, even more likely to be deficient,” says the team at BetterYou.
“Magnesium is required by every cell in the body. It keeps natural energy levels up; aids muscle and nerve function and supports strong bones. Signs of deficiency can include fatigue, muscle twitches, and feelings of restlessness which often affects sleep.
“As well as this, magnesium supports protein synthesis which helps to rebuild muscle after exercise. It also plays a key role in reducing post-workout discomfort by balancing calcium and potassium and helping flush out lactic acid to prevent stiffness and cramping.”
How Does Magnesium Improve Sleep?
“Magnesium is essential for regulating neurotransmitters and supporting the body’s circadian rhythm, ensuring a more consistent and restorative sleep pattern,” explains Martin Seeley. “It also reduces cortisol—the stress hormone—helping to lower anxiety levels that can interfere with sleep.”
“From a physiological perspective, magnesium activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax. It also regulates GABA receptors, neurotransmitters that promote calmness and prepare the brain for sleep. By improving muscle relaxation and reducing cramps, magnesium can prevent nighttime discomfort that often disrupts sleep,” he adds.
Can Magnesium Help with Sleep Disorders?
In the UK around 1 in 3 of us suffer from insomnia, according to the NHS³. So, could magnesium be a remedy for restless nights?
“Research has linked magnesium deficiency to an increased risk of sleep disorders, including insomnia and restless leg syndrome (RLS). By maintaining adequate magnesium levels, you can experience reduced sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep), fewer nighttime awakenings, and an overall improvement in sleep efficiency” says Seeley.
When Is The Best Time To Take Magnesium? Are There Any Risks?
Magnesium supplements can generally be taken at any time of day – the key is keeping consistency. On average it takes around 10 weeks to build a habit⁴, so start by working it into your nighttime routine, or taking it with your morning meal suggest BetterYou.
“Keeping magnesium levels replenished daily is vitally important as stress, exercise and everyday function continuously depletes magnesium levels. We recommend applying our Magnesium Sleep body spray or Magnesium Sleep lotion as part of your nighttime routine before bed. The practice of massage into the skin aids magnesium absorption but also aids relaxation.”
While magnesium is generally safe, the team at BetterYou advises speaking to a GP or pharmacist if you have existing health conditions or take medication. “When taking other minerals such as calcium, zinc or iron it’s advised to space them out throughout the day, rather than taking them at the same time as Magnesium. One of the many benefits of using transdermal Magnesium is that it won’t interfere with the absorption of tablets and capsules.”
The Verdict: Does Magnesium Really Work?
With scientific backing, magnesium may indeed be one of the most effective natural remedies for improving sleep quality. Whether through diet, supplements, or topical applications, ensuring adequate magnesium levels could be the key to achieving deeper, more restorative sleep—without the need for sleeping pills.
For more information on magnesium benefits, please visit: https://www.mattressnextday.co.uk/snooze-news/post/the-4-ways-magnesium-improves-your-sleep
For more information on BetterYou magnesium products, please visit: https://betteryou.com/collections/magnesium-supplements
