Two bottles labeled Melatonin and Magnesium with boxing gloves in a ring.

Magnesium and Melatonin for Sleep: Should You Take Them Together?

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Published

Thu, 28 Jul 2026

3 min. read

If you’re struggling with sleep, chances are you’ve heard of melatonin and magnesium supplements. They’re two of the most talked-about sleep aids—and for good reason. But they’re not the same, and understanding how they work can help you finally get the rest you’ve been missing. This guide breaks down the differences between magnesium and melatonin, whether it’s safe to take them together, and what works best if you’re serious about improving your sleep.

What’s the Difference Between Magnesium and Melatonin?

What’s the Difference Between Magnesium and Melatonin?

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces when it gets dark. It plays a key role in regulating your internal sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm, by signaling to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Melatonin levels begin to rise in the evening as a response to darkness and drop again in the morning to help you wake up.

Supplemental melatonin is often used for:

  • Jet lag

  • Irregular sleep schedules

  • Trouble falling asleep

But melatonin alone doesn’t keep you asleep. It’s more of a signal—not a sedative.

Magnesium (Especially with Vitamin B6)

Magnesium plays a different role. It helps calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and relax muscles—all of which are crucial for deeper, more restorative sleep. When combined with Vitamin B6, your body can better absorb and use magnesium.

Magnesium is especially helpful if:

  • You wake up throughout the night

  • Stress or muscle tension keeps you awake

  • You’re not feeling rested in the morning

What’s the Difference Between Magnesium and Melatonin?

Can You Take Magnesium and Melatonin Together?

Yes—and in fact, it’s often more effective than taking either alone. Melatonin helps initiate sleep, while magnesium helps sustain it. Together, they cover both sides of the sleep equation: falling asleep and staying asleep. That’s why many high-performing athletes and wellness professionals use a combination formula that includes both.

Magnesium (Especially with Vitamin B6)

Magnesium plays a different role. It helps calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and relax muscles—all of which are crucial for deeper, more restorative sleep. When combined with Vitamin B6, your body can better absorb and use magnesium.

Magnesium is especially helpful if:

  • You wake up throughout the night

  • Stress or muscle tension keeps you awake

  • You’re not feeling rested in the morning

What’s the Best Way to Take Them?

Look for a sleep aid that contains:

  • 3mg of melatonin – the sweet spot for most people

  • Magnesium (with Vitamin B6) – to support absorption and calm the body

  • Other proven ingredients like L-theanine and GABA to promote relaxation

What’s the Difference Between Magnesium and Melatonin?

Why Som Sleep Combines All of the Above

Som Sleep’s powder blend is designed to do more than just help you fall asleep. It helps you relax, fall asleep, and stay asleep*, thanks to a science-backed 5-in-1 formula:

  • 3mg of melatonin

  • Magnesium + Vitamin B6

  • L-theanine + GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid gaba)

It’s drug-free, non-habit forming, zero sugar, and trusted by over 100 pro sports teams. Just mix with water 30 minutes before bed. No pills, no guessing, no groggy mornings.

Magnesium (Especially with Vitamin B6)

Magnesium plays a different role. It helps calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and relax muscles—all of which are crucial for deeper, more restorative sleep. When combined with Vitamin B6, your body can better absorb and use magnesium.

Magnesium is especially helpful if:

  • You wake up throughout the night

  • Stress or muscle tension keeps you awake

  • You’re not feeling rested in the morning

Blue packets of SOM Sleep berry drink mix with fruits; supports restful sleep.

Berry Sleep Aid Drink Mix

$19

10-Pack, 0 Sugar

Purple Som Sleep cherry drink mix packaging with cherries in foreground.

Cherry Sleep Aid Drink Mix

$19

10-Pack, 0 Sugar

What’s the Difference Between Magnesium and Melatonin?

FAQs

Is magnesium better than melatonin?

Not better—just different. Melatonin sets the stage for sleep, while magnesium helps deepen and maintain it.

Is it safe to take both together?

Yes. Many studies and experts support combining them for better results—especially when taken at recommended doses.

Can I take them every night?

When used correctly, yes. Som Sleep is designed for nightly use without dependency.

Magnesium (Especially with Vitamin B6)

Magnesium plays a different role. It helps calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and relax muscles—all of which are crucial for deeper, more restorative sleep. When combined with Vitamin B6, your body can better absorb and use magnesium.

Magnesium is especially helpful if:

  • You wake up throughout the night

  • Stress or muscle tension keeps you awake

  • You’re not feeling rested in the morning

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Step 2. Build a basic routine

Next, build a basic skincare routine with essential products. Begin with a gentle cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Follow up with a moisturizer that suits your skin type to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. Don’t forget to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, as it’s crucial for protecting your skin from UV damage, even when you’re indoors.

If you’ve tried melatonin and it didn’t work or magnesium alone wasn’t enough—it may be time to try both. A balanced approach often delivers the best results.

"Once your routine is set, boost it with serums and weekly exfoliation for smooth, glowing skin."

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