According to a 2022 Gallup survey, one-third of Americans rate their sleep as “fair” or “poor,” and the range of sleep aids they try is ever-expanding—from herbal drinks to bedtime podcasts.
Among the variety of remedies, magnesium and melatonin are two supplements commonly used by Americans aiming for better sleep quality. But which is more effective?
Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist and director of sleep health at Sleepopolis, suggests that melatonin is generally more effective than magnesium in aiding sleep.
“While magnesium may aid in sleep onset, its effectiveness hasn’t been consistently demonstrated in research,” says Harris.
Melatonin, known as a natural sleep aid, is believed to assist in adjusting the body’s circadian rhythm when used correctly.
However, Harris and other experts recommend obtaining melatonin and magnesium through diet rather than supplements, as supplements are not strictly regulated in the U.S. Moreover, consulting a doctor before starting any new supplement is crucial, especially for individuals with underlying sleep disorders, for which melatonin often proves ineffective.
