Dr Mark Hyman’s Daily Routine: Drift into Dreamland: Natural Sleep Aids for a Restful Night
Even with a solid bedtime routine, Dr. Mark Hyman likes to add a few natural supplements to his nightly ritual to ensure he gets the restful, uninterrupted sleep he needs. His aim isn’t to knock himself out cold but to gently nudge his body into a peaceful state that encourages deep recovery.
- Magnesium Glycinate: Dr. Hyman takes 300–400 mg of magnesium glycinate, usually in the form of three capsules, before hitting the hay. This supplement helps relax his muscles, calm his nervous system, and enhance the quality of his sleep. It pairs perfectly with his Epsom salt baths, which also provide a dose of magnesium.
- Cortisol Manager: On particularly stressful nights, he turns to a supplement called Cortisol Manager. Packed with ashwagandha and other calming herbs, it helps lower cortisol levels and ease mental tension, making it easier to drift off.
- Occasional Melatonin: While melatonin isn’t part of his nightly routine, Dr. Hyman uses it during travel or after a disrupted schedule to help reset his internal clock and improve his ability to fall asleep.
- Glycine: This amino acid is a go-to for promoting calmness and slightly lowering core body temperature, which can make it easier to fall asleep in a cool environment.
- L-theanine: Found in tea, L-theanine is a calming compound that supports relaxation without causing drowsiness. Dr. Hyman sometimes includes it in his nighttime routine to help quiet his mind.
- 5-HTP: As a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, 5-HTP can support mood and sleep when needed, though it’s not a nightly staple for him.
No Sleep Medications: Dr. Hyman steers clear of pharmaceutical sleep aids. Instead, he relies on natural support, a consistent evening routine, and a well-regulated body clock.
These supplements are gentle additions to Dr. Hyman’s daily schedule. They’re not replacements for healthy habits but tools that support better rest when needed. Combined with a dark, quiet sleep environment and a consistent bedtime, they help him wake up feeling clear-headed and fully recharged.
