Melatonin and magnesium help with sleep problems in different ways, according to neurology professor Anita Shelgikar and Michael Grandner, director of the sleep and health research program at the University of Arizona in the United States. The two experts compared the effectiveness of the supplements in an interview with The Washington Post.
Shelgikar said melatonin works best for disruptions to the body's internal clock, such as jet lag or night shift work. She said it helps the body reset its sleep and wake cycle but does not act as a sleeping pill. Shelgikar said it is extremely unlikely that any dietary supplement can cure chronic insomnia.
Magnesium's role in sleep
Grandner said magnesium works differently, and can help with mild or temporary sleep disturbances as well as muscle tension. He said there is still very little solid evidence of its strong effectiveness, and recommended getting the mineral mainly from food rather than supplements.
Both experts said people should consult a doctor before taking any supplements, since they can interact with medications and cause side effects. They said anyone whose sleep problems last for several weeks and become chronic should seek medical help rather than relying only on melatonin or magnesium.
Sleep specialist Christopher J. Allen previously identified an unexpected cause of summer insomnia, suggesting sleep can worsen from drinking large amounts of water in the afternoon and evening.
