Helps Calm the Nervous System and Regulate Sleep Rhythms
Potential Side Effects with Excessive Intake

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Among modern people who struggle to fall asleep or frequently wake up late at night, combining magnesium and melatonin intake is gaining attention as a new alternative for sleep management.


Experts explain that these two ingredients work in different ways and can have complementary effects in improving sleep quality.


On May 12 (local time), nutrition expert Lainey Younkin told the U.S. health and nutrition media outlet EatingWell, "Magnesium calms the nervous system and relaxes muscles, while melatonin sends a signal to the body that it's time to sleep."


Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It lowers the excitability of nerve cells and helps regulate the biological clock and sleep cycle.


Melatonin is a representative sleep hormone. When the surrounding environment becomes dark, it is secreted from the brain to lower core body temperature, allowing you to fall asleep naturally. It is also known to help improve sleep quality by reducing oxidative stress through its antioxidant effects.


The effects of taking both ingredients together have also been confirmed in some studies. After taking 1.9mg of melatonin and 200mg of magnesium for four weeks, sleep efficiency and total sleep time increased, and the time it took to fall asleep was shortened.


For patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), combining the two ingredients improved not only sleep quality but also blood sugar and cholesterol levels.


However, experts emphasize that supplements should not be regarded as a cure-all solution.


Magnesium is classified as a relatively safe nutrient, but taking it in high doses may cause gastrointestinal issues. In particular, if kidney function is impaired, magnesium may not be efficiently excreted from the body and could accumulate, so caution is necessary.


Excessive intake of melatonin can also cause headaches, dizziness, or daytime drowsiness. In addition, if you are taking other medications such as sleeping pills or antidepressants, there is a possibility of drug interactions.


Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with chronic kidney disease, and those taking blood thinners should always consult a specialist before taking these supplements.



Younkin advises that instead of relying on supplements, it is more important to correct lifestyle habits, such as limiting caffeine intake or reducing screen time on mobile phones before bedtime.


This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.

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