The Science of Sleep: Why Your Current Magnesium Isn’t Working (And What to Use Instead)

Magnesium has quietly become the go-to sleep supplement over the past few years. It’s often seen as a gentler alternative to sleep medications and a less intense option than melatonin. And after the holidays most of us could use a little extra help getting quality rest.

But here’s the problem: not all magnesium works the same. With so many forms on the market, it’s easy to assume that taking any magnesium before bed will do the trick. In reality, the type of magnesium you choose, and what it’s paired with, can make a meaningful difference in how well you sleep.

When it comes to sleep support, magnesium glycinate is often considered the gold standard. It’s well-absorbed and known for its calming effect on the nervous system, helping the body wind down rather than stimulating digestion or energy production. This matters, especially at night, when the goal isn’t just falling asleep but staying asleep and waking up feeling restored.

Even then, magnesium on its own doesn’t always address the full picture. Sleep is influenced by more than muscle relaxation. Hormonal rhythms, stress levels, and circadian timing all play a role. That’s why formulations that pair magnesium with complementary ingredients can offer more comprehensive support.

One of those ingredients is tart cherry powder. Naturally rich in compounds that support melatonin production, tart cherry has been shown to help regulate sleep-wake cycles without acting as a sedative. Instead of forcing sleep, it works with the body’s natural rhythms, something especially helpful during the post-holiday reset, when schedules have been anything but consistent.

This is where mindbodygreen’s magnesium+ powder stands out. It combines magnesium glycinate with tart cherry powder and other sleep-supportive ingredients to help the body relax, recover, and ease into deeper rest. Rather than relying on a single mechanism, the formula supports both physical relaxation and circadian balance.

As the new year begins, better sleep often becomes the foundation for every other goal, whether that’s more energy, improved focus, or simply feeling like yourself again. Resetting sleep isn’t about doing more or adding intensity. Sometimes it’s about choosing the right support, so your body can do what it’s designed to do naturally.