If you search sleep and magnesium on the Internet, you’ll discover pages and pages of claims about magnesium as a quick cure for restless legs syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD).It’s tempting to consider using a single supplement like magnesium as an easy fix or affordable “cure” for twitchy legs at bedtime or overnight.But is magnesium an easy fix? And can it live up to its promise as a sleep disorder treatment? Let’s take a closer look.What is magnesium?This mineral regulates body chemistry linked to the functions of muscles and nerves. It helps control blood pressure, balance blood sugar, and helps to build proteins. The human body carries about 25 grams of magnesium at any given time, half of it in the bones with the remainder stored in soft tissue.1Meanwhile, less than 1 percent is found in the bloodstream itself. The kidneys process and excrete the body’s surplus through the urine.1 Most healthy people possess sufficient magnesium stores which they maintain...
