A GP has shared two supplements that could help improve sleep qualityAndrew Nuttall U35 Lifestyle Writer and Sophie Buchan Money and Lifestyle Writer
19:53, 22 Feb 2026
Magnesium is just one option, according to the doctor(Image: Grace Cary via Getty Images)
Many of us find it hard to get a good night’s sleep, whether due to busy schedules or underlying health concerns. When our sleep patterns are disrupted, it can affect everything from focus and productivity to overall wellbeing.
The good news is that there are ways to improve rest, and while many people turn to supplements to fill nutritional gaps, especially when a deficiency has been medically confirmed, it could also help sleep.
British GP Dr Ahmed highlights two supplements that “almost everyone” could benefit from incorporating into their daily routine to promote better sleep. He explains:”I’ve said this before, many times – magnesium.”
Many people lie awake at night, unable to sleep, but there are solutions(Image: We Are via Getty Images)
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 revealed that he personally prefers magnesium glycinate. This important mineral is available in several formslike tablets, gummies, and powders.
This means that people can choose the option that works best for them, ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional, according to the Express.
But its benefits go far beyond improving sleep, potentially supporting a range of physical and mental health concerns, including anxiety, bone strength and blood sugar regulation. Other advantages may include easing migraines, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and muscle cramps.
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 by the body, magnesium plays a crucial role in converting food into energy while supporting the parathyroid glands, which help maintain healthy bones.
Dietary sources rich in magnesium, like spinach, nuts, and wholemeal bread, can complement supplements. For most adults, the recommended daily intake generally ranges from 270 to 300 mg
However, taking too much magnesium can lead to discomfort, and consuming more than 400 mg may cause diarrhoea. To determine the right dosage, it’s best to consult your GP, who can advise on the appropriate amount for you and whether magnesium supplements are suitable.
There are supplements which can help your body sleep easier at night(Image: Getty)
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.
Magnesium is often associated with gym-goers seeking to build muscle, thanks to its well-known benefits for physical performance. However, it may also support better sleep, potentially increasing total sleep duration and helping reduce sleep pressure in those who have been sleep-deprived.
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’s recommended to speak with your GP before adding any new supplements to your routine. They can provide personalised advice based on your medical history and highlight any potential risks, including interactions with other medications you may be taking.
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