Medically reviewed by Alex Yampolsky, PharmD
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- Magnesium and zinc are popular supplements that may help improve sleep quality.
- If it is difficult for you to rest or fall asleep, magnesium may be the best option. If you have no problem falling asleep, but do not feel well rested, zinc may be the most useful.
- Taking a zinc or magnesium supplement for sleep will likely be most effective if your levels for either mineral are low.
Magnesium and zinc are both common supplements that may help with sleep and relaxation. Depending on what sleep issues you are having, one may be more useful than the other.
Magnesium for Sleep
Magnesium is a mineral needed for many body processes, including sleep. The mineral helps improve sleep in many ways, such as:
- Regulates the production and release of stress- and sleep-related hormones and neurotransmitters, like melatonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
- Promotes relaxation through your body by calming your nervous system and lowering stress and anxiety
- Relaxes your muscles from contraction, which also helps you rest physically
Research has found that magnesium can improve sleep in many ways, including helping you sleep for longer, fall asleep quicker, and improve the overall quality of sleep. This is especially true for people who have low magnesium levels. However, studies also show that magnesium may not be helpful for everyone, especially for people with normal magnesium levels.
Zinc for Sleep
Zinc is a mineral that also plays a role in regulating sleep. Zinc helps create and regulate the sleep and mood hormones serotonin and melatonin. There is also proof that zinc helps with the sleep-wake cycle of your brain by affecting GABA.
Studies have found that people taking zinc supplements or eating zinc-rich diets report falling asleep more quickly, feeling more refreshed after deep sleep, and noticing overall improvements in their sleep quality. People with normal or high zinc levels are more likely to report good sleep health and that they get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night.
However, other studies have found that zinc supplements do not improve sleep quality. More studies are needed to understand the ideal dose and role of zinc in sleep.
Which Is Better for Sleep?
Both magnesium and zinc play different roles in the biological processes that affect sleep. Magnesium helps you physically and mentally relax. Zinc helps more with "deep" sleep and improving your sleep-wake cycle, similar to melatonin. While studies have shown that both minerals can help you fall asleep quicker, there have not been any studies directly comparing the two.
It's best to understand how your sleep is affected to decide which mineral may be best for you. If you find it difficult to rest or fall asleep, magnesium may be the best option for you. If you have no problem falling asleep but do not feel well-rested when you wake up, zinc may be the most useful.
If you have low levels of either magnesium or zinc, this can also help you choose which supplement may be best for you. Normal magnesium levels in adults range from 0.75-0.95 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) of blood, while a normal zinc level is between 80-120 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) of blood. Your healthcare provider can check these levels for you through routine lab work. If you learn that either your magnesium or zinc levels are low, consider taking a supplement or eating foods high in zinc or magnesium.
Possible Magnesium and Zinc Side Effects
Magnesium supplements are considered safe when taken at the recommended dose. Most side effects reported with magnesium are gastrointestinal (GI), including nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The tolerable upper intake level for magnesium supplements in adults is 350 milligrams daily. Very high doses of magnesium can cause serious side effects, like low blood pressure (hypotension) and abnormal heart rate (arrhythmias).
Zinc is also considered safe when taken at the recommended dose. Possible side effects from zinc include nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Very high doses of zinc can lead to immune function issues and lower the amount of iron in your body. The tolerable upper intake level of zinc in adults is 40 milligrams per day. Doses above 40 milligrams can raise your risk for the mentioned side effects.
Magnesium and zinc are safe to take together. However, they can both cause GI side effects. If taking both, be sure to watch for side effects and consider only taking one if you notice any.
Other Useful Sleep Aids
Sleep plays an important role in overall health. For people experiencing insomnia and other sleep issues, other supplements may also help improve rest. Popular examples include melatonin, L-theanine, tart cherry, and valerian root.
You can also take steps to improve your sleep without medication or supplements. Some lifestyle tips for better sleep include:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- Exercise regularly, but avoid exercise right before bed
- Maintain a nutritious, well-rounded diet
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine that you follow every day
- Limit or avoid screens or electronic devices for at least 30 minutes before bed
- Keep your bedroom quiet and at a cool temperature at all times
- Limit or avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening
- Limit or avoid large meals and alcohol before bedtime
Talk with a healthcare provider if you have questions about ways you can help improve your sleep.

