The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial

The study "The Effect of Magnesium Supplementation on Primary Insomnia in Elderly: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial" investigated the impact of magnesium on sleep quality in older adults with primary insomnia. Forty-six participants, aged 60-75, were randomly assigned to receive either 500 mg of magnesium or a placebo daily for eight weeks. Results showed that the magnesium group experienced significant improvements in sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and sleep onset latency compared to the placebo group. Additionally, there were increases in serum melatonin and renin levels, and a decrease in cortisol concentration, indicating enhanced sleep quality and reduced stress.These findings suggest that magnesium supplementation may benefit sleep quality in the elderly, which is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and overall brain health. Improved sleep can enhance memory consolidation and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. However, individuals should consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplementation, as excessive magnesium intake can lead to adverse effects. Given the study's rigorous design and publication in a peer-reviewed journal, the evidence is credible, yet further research is needed to generalize these findings to broader populations.