Magnesium for Kids: How Essential for Brain Function, Focus & Sleep?


1. What is Magnesium & Why Do Kids Need It?

Magnesium is a critical mineral involved in over 300 biochemical processes in the body, including brain function, sleep regulation, and stress management. Despite its importance, many children do not get enough magnesium from their diet.

Key functions of magnesium include:
Supports neurotransmitter function for learning & memory
Regulates mood and stress response
Promotes restful sleep by calming the nervous system
Reduces hyperactivity and improves focus

📌 Related Article: The Science behind Nutrition and brain development


2. Key Benefits of Magnesium for Children

1️⃣ Supports Focus & Reduces Hyperactivity

A 2016 study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that children with ADHD had significantly lower magnesium levels compared to neurotypical children. Supplementing with magnesium led to improvements in attention and behavior regulation.
📌 Read the study

2️⃣ Helps with Anxiety & Mood Regulation

A 2017 study in Nutrients found that magnesium plays a key role in reducing stress, anxiety, and irritability in children by regulating cortisol levels and supporting neurotransmitter function.
📌 Read the study

3️⃣ Improves Sleep Quality

Magnesium helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and deeper sleep. A 2019 study in Sleep Medicine Reviews found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep onset and quality in children with difficulty falling asleep.
📌 Read the study


3. Is Magnesium Safe for Kids?

Magnesium is safe and essential for children, but it’s important to:
Ensure proper dosage – Recommended intake is 80-240 mg per day, depending on age.
Choose bioavailable formsMagnesium glycinate or magnesium citrate are better absorbed than magnesium oxide.
Monitor for mild side effects like loose stools if the dose is too high.


4. Best Food Sources of Magnesium

🥑 Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, Swiss chard
🥜 Nuts & Seeds – Pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews
🍫 Dark Chocolate – One of the tastiest natural sources
🍌 Bananas & Avocados – Magnesium-rich fruits
🍬 Gummies & Chewables – A kid-friendly supplement option

📌 Related Article: Saffron for Kids: Can This Ancient Spice Support Focus & Mood?


5. How Magnesium Supplements Compare

Most magnesium supplements focus only on magnesium, while full-spectrum formulas like ShroomIQ combine multiple brain-supporting nutrients.

ProductKey IngredientsFormula StrengthCost
Natural Vitality Calm MagnesiumMagnesium citrateSupports relaxation, lacks cognitive enhancers$39 (16 oz)
Mary Ruth’s Magnesium GummiesMagnesium glycinateGood absorption, no additional brain support$28 (60 gummies)
ShroomIQ GummiesLion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, Omega-3, Magnesium, B Vitamins, ZincFull cognitive support blend$39 (60 gummies)

📌 While most brands only offer magnesium, ShroomIQ combines 10 research-backed ingredients for comprehensive brain, focus, and sleep support—including Lion’s Mane, Omega-3 DHA, and Reishi for enhanced cognitive function and relaxation.


Please note:

Every child is unique, and so are their nutritional needs. We’ve carefully formulated our dosages to align with recommended intake levels. However, you can also adjust based on weight:

  • 1 gummy per day for children under 40 kg (88 lbs)
  • 2 gummies per day for children over 40 kg (55-88 lbs)

 

Always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the best dosage for your child.