Millions struggle to sleep at night due to busy lives and medical conditions, but a British GP has shared two supplements that could help improve slumber quality.
Many of us struggle to get a decent night’s kip, with causes ranging from hectic schedules to underlying health issues. Disrupted sleep patterns can wreak havoc on daily life, affecting everything from concentration to overall wellbeing.
Thankfully, solutions exist for those keen to get more rest. In fact, many turn to supplements to address potential nutritional gaps, particularly following a confirmed deficiency diagnosis.
British GP Dr Ahmed (MBBS, MRCGP, BSc) said there are two supplements that “almost everyone” could benefit from adding to their daily routine to help them sleep better at night. He said: “I’ve said this before, many times – magnesium.”
He added: “I think magnesium is something almost everyone will benefit from. The type you take honestly depends on what you’re using it for.”
The doctor shared that he personally opts for magnesium glycinate. This essential mineral comes in various formats such as tablets, gummies and powders – allowing people to select what suits them best, ideally following professional medical guidance, reports the Express.
Its benefits extend well beyond sleep quality, potentially supporting numerous physical and psychological conditions such as anxiety, skeletal strength and glucose regulation. Additional advantages may include relief from migraines, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and muscular cramping.
Dr Ahmed said: “I take it just in the evening before I sleep to help me relax and get better sleep. Now, that is anecdotal [but] studies have shown it usually can help with sleeping anxiety but it’s best to try for yourself and see if it helps you.”
According to the NHS, magnesium is an essential mineral required by the human body. Produced naturally, it plays a vital role in converting food into energy whilst ensuring the hormone-producing parathyroid glands function properly to support bone health.
It is an excellent natural source of magnesium that may complement supplements include spinach, nuts and wholemeal bread. The recommended daily intake for adults typically falls between 270-300mg.
Taking too much magnesium can cause discomfort and, if consumption exceeds 400mg, diarrhoea. To determine the correct dosage, consult your GP, who can advise on the appropriate amount for you and whether magnesium supplements are suitable.
Dr Ahmed said the second suggestion “may surprise people” but claims it has given “amazing” results in combating fatigue in recent studies as well as decreasing the risk of getting dementia – creatine monohydrate. This organic supplement also comes in various forms.
It is commonly associated with gym-goers looking to build muscle, owing to its well-documented benefits in boosting physical performance. However, it has also been linked to improved total sleep duration and may reduce homeostatic sleep pressure in individuals who have experienced sleep deprivation.
The doctor noted: “Some people say they get a lot of side effects with creatine because it causes them to get diarrhoea, constipation or stomach pains. Often, that’s because the product you’re getting is not pure.
“With any supplement, it’s always important to research what you’re getting and make sure you’re getting the purest form. That’s not always easy because a lot of the companies you buy from aren’t sure [either].”
It is advisable to consult your GP before introducing any new supplements into your routine. They are best placed to offer tailored guidance based on your personal medical history, and can flag any potential risks linked to particular products – including possible interactions with any other medications you may be taking.
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