Magnesium is a mineral essential for our body, with numerous benefits, including improvements in sleep quality. It can be obtained through dietary supplements or by consuming foods like avocados, almonds, and beans. Apart from participating in various chemical reactions that benefit health, magnesium also contributes to better rest.
One of the advantages of taking magnesium before sleep is that it calms the nervous system. It enhances the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid, which helps achieve a greater sense of calm and favors falling asleep. Additionally, magnesium relaxes muscles by inhibiting a neurotransmitter linked to memory and muscles, promoting body relaxation and facilitating sleep.
Although melatonin is known as the "sleep hormone," a lack of magnesium may be related to decreased production of melatonin in the body. While more studies are needed to compare the effects of magnesium to those of melatonin, benefits of magnesium consumption have been found in sleep quality and regulation of circadian cycles.
Another benefit of magnesium is that it helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol hormone levels, which is related to stress. A magnesium deficiency can affect sleep quality and worsen insomnia. On the other hand, it is important to remember that excessive consumption of this mineral can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, among other symptoms. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a specialist to determine the appropriate dosage of magnesium for each individual.
