Effects of Dietary Supplementation in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: A Systematic Review

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#restless-legs-syndrome #humans #dietary-supplements #randomized-controlled-trials-as-topic #sleep-quality

Effects of Dietary Supplementation in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: A Systematic Review

González-Parejo et al., 2024 | Nutrients | Systematic Review

Citation

González-Parejo Pedro, Martín-Núñez Javier, ... Valenza Marie Carmen. Effects of Dietary Supplementation in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2024-Jul-18;16(14). doi:10.3390/nu16142315

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder. It disrupts sleep and well-being and is often associated with other conditions. This review examines the potential of dietary supplements to manage RLS symptoms and reduce reliance on medications. A total of 10 randomized clinical trials involving 482 participants were analyzed, focusing on the impact of various supplements on symptom severity, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness. Findings suggest some supplements may have positive results. Magnesium oxide and vitamin B6 significantly improved sleep quality and RLS symptoms, with magnesium showing greater effectiveness. Vitamin D supplementation did not show significant benefits. Oral iron has promising results, indicating potential efficacy but issues related to compliance and absorption. Both vitamins C and E positively affect RLS symptoms, likely due to their antioxidant properties. Valerian improved RLS and sleep but did not show a statistically significant improvement. Despite these encouraging results, a high risk of bias was noted in half of the studies, emphasizing the need for more rigorous research. Overall, this review suggests that dietary supplements may be a promising approach to managing RLS. However, further investigation is required to confirm the efficacy and safety.

Key Findings

However, further investigation is required to confirm the efficacy and safety.

Outcomes Measured

  • sleep quality

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 482
Age Range See abstract
Condition sleep

MeSH Terms

  • Restless Legs Syndrome
  • Humans
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Sleep Quality
  • Vitamins
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Female
  • Male
  • Antioxidants
  • Middle Aged

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: valerian

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09