The science behind sleep supplements - melatonin and magnesium

The consensus among most sleep specialists, is that both melatonin and magnesium (glycinate) can have an ameliorative impact – in the short term. Both these supplements, however, work differently. Image used for representational purposes only | Photo Credit: Getty Images If a good night’s sleep has become your holy grail, who are the knights in shining armour you will employ to reach that chalice? Most people seem to be deploying melatonin and magnesium supplements, over the counter, but the question that remains is: are they effective, and if so, at what combinations or levels? The consensus among most sleep specialists, is that both melatonin and magnesium (glycinate) can have an ameliorative impact – in the short term. Both these supplements, however, work differently – while melatonin is a key body clock signal, magnesium helps relax the body. When and how you take both supplements makes a great deal of difference to your hours of sleep and sleep quality as well. Published - November 07, 2026 04:23 pm IST