Sleep & Magnesium
Mg may influence sleep duration via regulation of the circadian clock. Mg is crucial in neuronal processes given its important physiological role. A study conducted in rats suggested that Mg concentrations in the forebrain were highly correlated with sleep duration.
Additionally, Magnesium is associated with the production of melatonin, a key hormone involved in the regulation of the sleep–wake cycle. It has been shown in rats that Mg deficiency resulted in a decrease in plasma melatonin concentrations.
Supplementation of Magnesium appears to improve subjective and objective measures of insomnia in elderly people and may become a useful instrument in managing sleep disorders in the elderly, which could also be extended as a helpful aid to the general population.
Findings from a clinical trial showed that 500 mg elemental Mg supplementation for 8 weeks significantly increased the sleep duration and decreased the sleep latency in the elderly.
Study suggested that individuals with higher Magnesium intake are more likely to have the recommended duration of sleep.