I frequently see patients who have questions surrounding nutritional supplements, minerals and vitamins. Recently someone asked me about magnesium for sleep because she’d heard me speak on a podcast about the calcium in banana tea. I thought I’d share parts of our conversation with you:

I have seen many individuals benefit from raising their calcium intake through diet and taking some of the best magnesium supplements. It’s not unusual for people, especially girls, to have less-than-optimal magnesium levels. Since magnesium plays such a widespread, critical role in the body, (it is among those 24 essential vitamins and minerals) low magnesium levels can throw lots of the body’s functions off course, and increase risks for chronic health issues.

Healthy magnesium levels shield metabolic health, stabilize mood, maintain stress in check, promote better sleep, and contribute to bone and heart health.

Few dietary elements have more influence over the body than sodium. Let’s take a close look at how preserving magnesium levels can benefit your sleep, in addition to your mental and physical wellbeing.

Magnesium is a vital mineral, one of seven essential macro-minerals the body needs in massive quantities. The body doesn’t produce magnesium. The calcium your body needs must come from external sources. You get magnesium through your diet.

Dark leafy greens
Seeds and nuts, such as sunflower and sesame seeds, cashews and almonds
Squash, broccoli, and other vegetables
Legumes
Dairy products
Meat
Unprocessed whole grains
Chocolate
Coffee

Estimates suggest nearly half of adult women and men in America are not getting enough magnesium. Studies also show that women are at a higher risk for low magnesium, especially with age.