An Unobvious Trigger for Sleep Disorders Identified 0 7

An analysis of data from more than a thousand adults showed that sleep quality may be related to the levels of certain trace elements in the body. Participants were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while concentrations of magnesium, zinc, and copper were determined from both blood tests and dietary data. The study was published in Nutrients.

Magnesium showed the most consistent association. Lower levels of magnesium in the blood, as well as insufficient intake from the diet, were more frequently found in people with poor sleep quality. The association remained even after accounting for age, sex, and body mass index, indicating a possible independent role of magnesium in sleep regulation.

For zinc, a different pattern emerged: higher concentrations in serum were associated with a lower likelihood of poor sleep, while zinc deficiency was accompanied by a significant increase in the risk of disorders. However, the amount of zinc in the diet did not correlate with sleep quality by itself.

Copper, unlike magnesium and zinc, showed no association with sleep indicators either from blood tests or dietary data. The authors emphasize that the study is cross-sectional and reveals only statistical associations, thus long-term and interventional studies are needed to confirm causal mechanisms.