The "sleepy girl mocktail" has gone viral on TikTok, promising a night of blissful sleep with just a quick mix of tart cherry juice, magnesium powder, and sparkling water. But is this trendy drink a true slumber savior or just a placebo in a fancy glass?
Tart cherry juice, the star ingredient of a "sleepy girl mocktail," has long been touted as a natural sleep aid. While it's true that it contains the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, the amount is miniscule - a mere 0.01% per 100 grams. Studies on its effectiveness are limited and inconclusive, leaving sleep researchers skeptical that it can actually help you fall asleep.
The mocktail's other hero, magnesium powder, fares no better in definitive research. While some studies show that it has no significant impact on sleep others do suggest a link between magnesium and a restful slumber. Their results show magnesium reduces the stress hormone cortisol, increases melatonin, and regulates the central nervous system.
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the mocktail's effectiveness could be chalked up to the placebo effect. The belief in its sleep-inducing power can be remarkably potent. Moreover, the ritualistic act of preparing and sipping the drink can itself create a relaxing pre-sleep routine, contributing to better rest.
Whether it's the placebo effect, a soothing ritual, or simply a tasty beverage, the mocktail can offer a harmless and potentially helpful addition to your pre-sleep routine. Make sure you are using magnesium glycinate powder in your drink, as magnesium citrate is a laxative. To create the concoction, mix half a cup of pure tart cherry juice with one tablespoon of magnesium powder and add a splash of sparkling water to taste.