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Comparing Magnesium Supplements: The Best Ones for Sleep

Emma-Kate Lidbury

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Poor sleep affects millions of people, and while magnesium supplements can help, not all forms of magnesium work equally well for sleep. Some forms absorb better than others, and certain types are specifically shown to promote relaxation and deeper sleep.


Below, we’ll take a look at each type of magnesium supplement and compare their effectiveness for better sleep, including:


  • How they specifically help with sleep
  • Who they’re best for
  • The potential downsides of each supplement
  • How to pick between popular brands
  • Optimal dosages for sleep improvement

Comparing Magnesium Supplements and How They Affect Sleep

The most popular forms of magnesium include:


  • Magnesium Glycinate: Good option for overall sleep support

  • Magnesium Threonate: Highly effective for sleep and cognitive support; most effective at crossing the blood-brain barrier

  • Magnesium Taurate: Good for overall relaxation

  • Magnesium Citrate: Good for muscle relaxation, which can indirectly offer sleep support

  • Magnesium Malate: Good for energy production, muscle function, and mood primarily, but also effective for promoting restful sleep

  • Magnesium Oxide: Helpful in reducing blood pressure and blood sugar, but not optimal as a sleep aid


Magnesium Glycinate

How it helps with sleep:

  • Combined with glycine, which research suggests may support relaxation and sleep quality

  • Generally well-absorbed and may help support natural sleep-wake cycles

  • May help with occasional sleeplessness and support overall relaxation


Best for:

  • People seeking a gentle, well-absorbed form of magnesium

  • Those who need a form that's less likely to cause digestive issues


Potential downside:

  • Generally more expensive than basic magnesium forms


Magnesium Threonate

How it helps with sleep:

  • Shows good ability to cross the blood-brain barrier

  • May support mental calmness and relaxation before sleep, helping to calm the nervous system

  • Could help support both sleep quality and cognitive function


Best for:

  • People interested in both sleep and cognitive support

  • Those who haven't found success with other forms


Potential downside:

  • More expensive


Magnesium Taurate

How it helps with sleep:

  • Combined with taurine, which may have calming properties

  • May support overall cardiovascular health alongside sleep

  • Could help support general relaxation


Best for:

  • People looking for general relaxation support

  • Those interested in combined cardiovascular support


Potential downside:

  • Can be harder to find than more common forms


Magnesium Citrate

How it helps with sleep:

  • Well-absorbed form that may support overall magnesium levels

  • Can support muscle relaxation

  • May help with occasional sleep support


Best for:

  • People seeking a cost-effective, well-absorbed option

  • Those who also want gentle digestive support


Potential downside:

  • Side effects can include mild laxative effects at higher doses


Magnesium Malate

How it helps with sleep:

  • Combined with malic acid

  • May support daytime energy, potentially leading to better natural sleep cycles

  • Supports muscle function and recovery


Best for:

  • Athletes and/or people looking for daytime magnesium support

  • Those interested in muscle function and health and/or those looking to help prevent muscle cramps


Potential downside:

  • Best taken earlier in the day due to potential energizing effects


Magnesium Oxide

How it helps with sleep:

  • Provides magnesium, though with lower absorption than other forms

  • Common in basic supplements


Best for:

  • Those seeking a basic, economical magnesium supplement


Potential downside:

  • Lower absorption rate compared to other forms

  • Side effects can include digestive discomfort


How to Find a High-Quality Magnesium Supplement to Enhance Your Quality of Sleep

In our relentless pursuit of optimal human performance, here’s what we think you should look for in a high-quality magnesium supplement that can help enhance your sleep quality:


  • No additives and/or fillers: be aware of everything in the supplement, not just the active ingredients. Many lower-quality products include additives and fillers.

  • The correct dosage: Check how much of the active ingredient is in the supplement and cross reference this with recommended dosages to ensure you’re getting adequate amounts. For example, the recommended daily dose of magnesium is 400-420 mg for men and 310-320 mg for women.

  • Third-party testing: Look for brands that have third-party certifications, such as NSF Certified for Sport . This guarantees the safety, purity, and efficacy of the product you’re consuming.

Momentous Magnesium L-Threonate is a premium, third-party tested magnesium supplement that can help improve your sleep, cognitive performance, and brain health. It holds the prestigious NSF Certified for Sport certification, which is a certification trusted by professional sports teams and organizations.


It includes 2 grams of Magtein® per serving. Magtein® is a patented form of magnesium L-threonate, distinguished by its unique ability to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier. This enhanced bioavailability is significant because magnesium plays a crucial role in numerous brain functions, including memory, learning, and overall cognitive performance.

Recent customer reviews of Momentous Magnesium L-Threonate recognize its quality and efficacy when it comes to improving sleep: 


I’ve been using Magnesium L-Threonate for a few months now, and the difference in my sleep quality and overall relaxation has been incredible. I initially started taking it because I struggled with falling asleep and staying asleep, and I wanted something natural to support my sleep without grogginess in the morning.


What I’ve noticed:

✔ Deeper, more restful sleep – I fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more refreshed.

✔ Calm, relaxed mind – It helps quiet racing thoughts, making it easier to wind down at night.

✔ No morning grogginess – Unlike other sleep aids, I wake up feeling clear-headed and ready for the day.


I also love that Magnesium L-Threonate is one of the most absorbable forms of magnesium, specifically supporting brain health and cognitive function. I’ve noticed subtle improvements in mental clarity and focus as well. If you’re looking for a natural sleep aid that also supports brain function, I highly recommend giving Magnesium L-Threonate a try! 

⭐ 5/5 – A must-have for better sleep and relaxation!

 -Michelle C. 


Helps ensure a good night’s sleep! I use this nearly every night and ALWAYS notice I feel better rested the next morning!

 -Angela D. 


Emma-Kate Lidbury

Emma-Kate Lidbury

Emma-Kate Lidbury is a freelance writer and editor with 20 years of experience working in the health and fitness world.