MEMBERS AREA

10 Best Sleep Aid Supplements For Bodybuilding [Updated 2024]

by Nader Qudimat
Updated December 31, 2023

Let's face it:

Nailing a good night's sleep can be a real struggle.

And after a workout?

Even more so.

You might find your mind buzzing with energy, refusing to power down.

But why does this happen?

Let's dive in...

MOST EFFECTIVE
Hibernate by Huge Supplements

Hibernate contains one of the biggest servings in sleep aids.

Packing over 9g of sleep aids, it ensures you are in the best mindset for a good nights rest.

Highlights:
  • Big doses of sleep aids
  • Improves mood
  • Enhances sleep quality
Ingredients: 3g GABA, 1g Kanna, 500mg Theanine, 250mg Mucuna Pruriens, 225mg Valerian, 150mg 5-HTP, 150mg Passion Flower, 3mg Melatonin
CHECK IT OUT ALTERNATIVE STORE
FitFrek earns a commission if you click this link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
AFFORDABLE
WellnessSeries Sleep Aid by Transparent Labs

The cheapest option with the most effective forms of sleep aids, Sleep Aid by Transparent Labs is a solid choice.

It has highly bioavailable ingredients with a synergistic blend, including ZMA and more.

CHECK IT OUT
FitFrek earns a commission if you click this link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Ever wondered why you toss and turn at night?

Here's the deal:

When you exercise or have a stressful day, your body pumps out cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones are your body's response to stress, especially the kind that comes from a killer workout.

They rev up your heart rate, flood your muscles with blood, and sharpen your alertness.

Great for crushing your gym session, not so much for winding down afterward.

Now, the amount and quality of sleep you get can depend on a bunch of factors like your age, weight, and even the time of year.

But here's the kicker:

We all need a certain amount of quality sleep to function at our best.

Without it, your body can't repair and grow.

In other words, sleep is a non-negotiable part of muscle development.

Sure, there are a ton of ways to improve your sleep.

Maybe you've tried essential oils, a calming bedtime routine, or even shifting your workout schedule.

But if you're still here, reading this article, chances are those strategies didn't quite cut it.

Welcome to the club...

In this guide, we're going to dive into the top ten sleep aids that can also boost post-workout recovery.

We'll also explore the top ten natural sleep remedies and the key ingredients that promote sleep.

So, don't forget to share this post and drop a comment if you've tried any of these supplements and seen some impressive results.

AFFORDABLE
Hypnos Sleep Aid by Chaos and Pain

Hypnos is a value pick sleep aid that has 10 ingredients which will help enhance sleep quality.

Use discount code FITFREK

CHECK IT OUT ALTERNATIVE STORE
FitFrek earns a commission if you click this link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Sleep Supplements for 2024

RECOVERY & GAINS

WellnessSeries Sleep Aid by Transparent Labs

BEST FOR PRICE
Sleep Aid by Transparent Labs

When you're looking for something simple but effective, look no further than Sleep Aid by Transparent Labs.

While the formula is simple, it contains highly bioavailable forms of ingredients to help maximize a good nights rest.

Highlights:
  • High quality formula
  • Reduces inflammation and increases sleep quality
  • Affordable and low price
Ingredients: 10mg Vitamin B6 (As Pyridoxine HCl), 200mg Magnesium Citrate, 3mg Zinc Picolinate, 1g Glycine, 500mg Tart Cherry Powder (As VitaCherry®), 200mg L-Theanine, 125mg Rutaecarpine, 3mg Melatonin
CHECK IT OUT
FitFrek earns a commission if you click this link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Transparent Labs is a straight, no non-sense company that makes straight formulas without the fluff. 

They've been making completely transparent and dosed formulas for years.

Their sleep supplement, simply named Sleep Aid, you get 8 ingredients packed in 3 capsules. 

  • ZMA (Zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6)
  • Glycine
  • Tart Chery
  • Theanine 
  • Rutaecarpine

This is a sleep supplement made for athletes but even if you don't consider yourself one, you'll probably want to go with this one. 

Check out our review on Transparent Labs Sleep Aid here.

Typically supplements using these ingredients are going to use the cheapest or common forms, but Sleep Aid uses patented ingredients and only that.

All the ingredients are highly bioavailable, from the zinc to the magnesium and VitaCherry (Tart Cherry). 

And it uses a small dose of melatonin of only 3mg, which is welcomed since anything more than that may just be too much for some people. 

The combination of ZMA, glycine, theanine and rutaecarpine will help reduce anxiety and increase relaxation.

However the strongest ingredient in here is the tart cherry.

This ingredient makes Sleep Aid as great as it is, the list of benefits is endless. 

It enhances recovery, promotes joint health, reduces inflammation and muscle damage, and it even reduces LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). 

Another interesting ingredient is rutacarpine, this ingredient is interesting because it can help reduce the time caffeine takes to leave your system. Typically caffeine takes at least 10 hours to leave your system, but with rutacarpine, this can be reduced all the way down to 4 hours. 

This entire formula will work in synergy to help improve sleep quality and energy levels when you wake up the next day. 

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or have terrible sleep quality, then Sleep Aid is perfect for you.

Use coupon code FITFREK for a discount. 

CHECK IT OUT
NATURAL FORMULA

Hibernate by Huge Nutrition

$44.95
hugesupplements.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:

3g GABA, 1g Kanna, 1g Tyrosine, 500mg Theanine, 250mg L-Dopa, 225mg Valerian Root, 150mg 5-HTP, 150mg Passion Flower, 3mg Melatonin

Huge servings
Mostly natural with herbs
Taste is incredible
None

Hibernate contains mostly herbs, along with GABA , 5-HTP and melatonin. 

The entire formula is stacked with the best sleep aid ingredients.

It has a strong mix of natural herbs that will ease you into the best sleep possible through it's 10 gram scoop servings.

It has over 8 ingredients, and wouldn't be able to fit all of these ingredients into capsules, which is why it's in a powdered drink but thankfully, it's incredibly satisfying to drink. 

Although this contains a bunch of herbs, the taste of the ingredients are well disguised. 

The melatonin dose is at 3mg, which is just enough, even if you take half servings.

The herbs in here are great for relaxing and makes for an incredible nights of sleep, but one of the best ingredients in here is passion flower. 

All the ingredients are generously dosed, and will help with recovery and sleep. 

Use coupon code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
ENHANCES MOOD & SLEEP

Anesthetized by Blackstone Labs

$44.99
nutritionfaktory.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Uses phenibut
Helps with mood
Can cause dependency

Blackstone Labs is known for their borderline legal supplements and have been bringing us the kind of supplements that turn heads when you see them. 

Their hardcore formulas and supplements have brought us to Anesthetized, a phenibut and GABA containing sleep aid. 

Phenibut is the star of this supplement and it's incredible for reducing anxiety and stress. 

It's similar to GABA and they will both work in synergy since they work in similar ways. 

But the problem with phenibut is that you can't use it without cycling it, and when you go off it, you may experience some withdrawals and it's considered unsafe when taken in large doses. 

As a sleep aid though, it's nice to try for a month and then move on to another sleep aid or nothing at all. 

There's 1.8g of phenibut in here is the middle ground of dosage. When it goes above 2g that's when you'll notice more of the negative side effects of it than the benefits. 

It may be safer to use this sleep aid 2 times per week, rather than everyday as a way to treat yourself to a high quality nights of sleep.

But if you're someone who just wants to increase sleep quality without phenibut then try another one on here. 

Use coupon code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
UNIQUE

Chemix Sleep by The Guerilla Chemist

$45.99
nutricartel.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Unique take on sleep aids
Uses patented ingredients
High quality ingredients
None

Chemix Sleep is made by the colorful company of the Guerilla Chemist. 

It contains a fairly simple formula of 6 ingredients that will help reduce anxiety and help increase sleep quality. 

It has ingredients that work in synergy with GABA to help you feel sedated and relaxed to have proper sleep. 

GABA is a neurotransmitter that works by decreasing beta waves and increasing alpha waves, in result helps winds you down for sleep. 

Chemix here is going with a patented version, GABAicalin, but we can't seem to find much on it. 

The 500mg dose is paired with 5 other ingredients, including a unique extract of chamomile, apigenin. 

Another benefit packed ingredient is MagnaSleep, it helps reduce inflammation, increase relaxation and reduce anxiety. 

This doesn't contain melatonin, making it globally friendly for purchasing and trying. 

Use coupon code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
RELAX & RECOVERY

Sueno Deep Sleep Aid by ASC Supplements

$46.95
nutricartel.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:

500mg magnesium, 25mg zinc, 4g glycine, 3g GABA, 2g Inositol, 2g taurine, 1g tryptophan, 400mg theanine, 300mg L-dopa, 300mg 5-HTP, 200mg Rutaecarpine, 5mg Melatonin, 50mg Astragin

Half servings is still strong
Fully stacked sleep aid
None

When we discovered this sleep aid by ASC Supplements, we knew it was going to be a banger. 

Sueno is one of the stronger sleep supplements we've seen so far. 

The serving size alone is close to 16g.

That's bigger than most, if not, all sleep aids. 

It's stacked with zinc, magnesium, GABA and much more. 

Even if you were to take half a serving, you'd still be getting 2.5mg melatonin, along with 200mg theanine, 1.5g GABA and much more. 

Sueno eases you and puts you in the prime state for the deepest sleep possible. 

And also it has taurine, which is a appreciated amino acid for hard working bodybuilders, as taurine is depleted by high effort exercise.  

The price is more than fair for the formula that you get, and with the discount code FITFREK, you'll get an even better deal. 

CHECK IT OUT
RELAXATION 

Superhuman Sleep by Alpha Lion

$39.95
nutricartel.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Helps with recovery
Improves mood
Reduces cortisol
None

Alpha Lion is a high end brand that formulates supplements with competitive pricing.

The blend of this supplement contains ZMA, herbs and minerals. 

Superhuman Sleep delivers a relaxing sedative to get you into a REM cycle, reduces anxiety levels and decreases sleep interruptions.

If you're not already taking ZMA, then you should go for this as research has shown that using ZMA also increases testosterone levels.

Use coupon code FITFREK.

Alternatively you can get it from Nutrition Faktory.

CHECK IT OUT
STRONGEST NATURAL CHOICE 

Dozer by Axe & Sledge

$34.99
nutritionfaktory.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Helps improve sleep
Reduces stress
None

Axe and Sledge is created by a hard working IFBB pro Seth Feroce, who is also a family man and understands the need for formulating supplements that's future-proof. 

This formula was created to be sold worldwide, so melatonin wasn't added.

Formulating Dozer to be without melatonin but still be just as effective was clearly a challenge that Axe and Sledge have overcome. 

The ingredients are some of the best we've seen in sleep aids, from a big dose of GABA (3g) as well as chamomile extract, ashwagandha, passion flower, phenylalanine, theanine and 5-HTP.

The last ingredient is interesting, it's like a time-released version of melatonin. 

But to keep this formula globally compliant, it doesn't include melatonin, and uses this instead. 

Tryptophan is an amino acid that can be converted into melatonin. It also helps mood by increasing the production of serotonin. 

L-Tyrosine is usually used in pre workouts, so you may be wondering why it's in a sleep aid. 

It's because GABA is a neurotransmitter and it's a precursor to dopamine. 

To help you replenish dopamine and get you primed for the next day, tyrosine is included at 750mg. 

Overall, Dozer is a solid choice for a sleep aid and will not only help you fall asleep, but it'll also help with sleep quality, duration and make you feel energized the next day. 

Use coupon code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
GENEROUSLY DOSED

Core ZZZ Sleep by Core Nutritionals

$39.99
suppz.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Big 3g dose of GABA
Optimizes testosterone levels and mood
Increases relaxation and sleep quality
Prop blend

Core Nutritionals is another company that likes to use properly dosed formulas that are completely open and transparent. 

Core ZZZ is their sleep aid and it contains a blend of ZMA, GABA, phenibut and more. 

This is one of the few supplements we've seen with the big dose of GABA. 

Phenibut is also included in here but luckily, it's at a small dose of 1g. The maximum dose for this is 2g, and anything more than that and you'll just be risking yourself for withdrawals and dependency. 

Since it does have phenibut, we recommend taking this no more than 2-4 times a week, or one month on and a month off. 

The longer you use phenibut, the more you'll feel the withdrawals when you cut it out. 

GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps increase alpha waves and decrease beta waves, which is needed for a restful sleep. 

The alpha waves are the relaxation waves that your brain has and beta waves are associated with the awaken state of your mind. 

Something to keep in mind is that there's melatonin in here, which isn't globally compliant, and that goes for phenibut as well. 

Beyond the sleep aids is the mucuna pruriens extract also known as L-Dopa, an ingredient often used in testosterone boosters to help optimize test levels and growth hormones. 

All in all, this is the kind of sleep aid you'll want to take if you want to experience deep sleep with the aid of phenibut. 

Use coupon code FITFREK. 

CHECK IT OUT
MOOD AND SLEEP

Machine Sleep Aid by MTS Nutrition

$39.99
nutricartel.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Very relaxing 
Prop blend

MTS Nutrition is another popular company for supplements.

This sleep supplement is formulated with herbs, amino acids as well as ashwagandha. 

These are potent ingredients work to promote and maintain a natural sleep cycle.

Hops and valerian have been show in various studies to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep whilst the hormone melatonin controls our biological clock.

Though this supplement won’t deliver any side-benefits like increased fat loss or enhanced recovery it is an all-natural product.

It won’t leave you feeling tired the next day and significantly enhances the quality of the sleep that you get.

Machine Sleep Aid uses 9 high quality sleep aids. 

Forget being using a mini sleep aid. 

This formula utilizes 6 fully dosed ingredients (with the exception of melatonin). ​

With Machine Sleep Aid, we're getting a herbal combination of both hops and valerian.

And to get you sleepy, it has GABA and chamomile to put you to sleep quicker.

And finally we also see it has lemon balm, a super underused and underrated sleep aid that we need to see more of.

And it uses 3mg and that may sleep minimal but that is more than enough to induce a good nights sleep.

Use coupon code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
BEASTLY FORMULATION 

Somatomax Sleep Aid by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals

$37.95
nutricartel.com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:
Big 14g blend of sleep aids
Strongest sleep aid with exotic compounds like phenibut
Prop blends
Shouldn't be used everyday

Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals is a professional looking supplement company that often is targetted by the FDA for their DMAA and exotic stimulants.

If it wasn't for Hi-Tech, we may not have the choice to try these hardcore stimulants.

Somatomax is designed to maximize the production of HGH during the first few hours of sleep with the help of L-Dopa and the other sleep aids in here. 

Not only does it increase muscle gain and aid deep sleep but it can also help decrease fat tissue.

This is one of the only sleep supplements that has 14g of active ingredients. 

In fact, this is easily one of the strongest sleep aids we've had so far. 

However, the only issue is that the ingredients are in a prop blend.

The extra benefits that this supplement provides on top of the extra sleep and greater results in lean muscle is an increased libido and pain relief.

Not a bad combination if you can stay awake long enough to make the most of it!

 
CHECK IT OUT

Herbal Sleep Ingredients Guide

These all natural ingredients can be taken as standalone supplements to aid sleep so you can concentrate on the post-workout recovery element as part of a different regime. Widely available, these sleep aids can be quite potent when used correctly and have very few if any, side effects.

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is a herb that has been used for centuries to promote calm and relaxation. It works by stimulating the GABA receptors in your brain, creating a sedative effect. This can help not only with sleep disorders but also with anxiety, making it a great addition to a sleep aid supplement.

Valerian

Then we have valerian root.

This herb has been used for centuries to treat insomnia and anxiety.

It works by increasing the levels of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

And why is that important?

Because GABA blocks certain brain signals and reduces activity in your nervous system, helping you relax and fall asleep.

You can get the benefits of using Valerian root before bed in under a week. All you have to do is pour boiling water over the dried root, then drink the infused water.​

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is well-known for its calming and relaxing properties. It's often used in aromatherapy to help reduce anxiety and promote sleep. The calming fragrance of lavender oil can help you relax and unwind before bed, making it easier to fall asleep.

Hops Extract

Hops extract is often used in combination with valerian root to promote sleep. It has a sedative effect that can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Plus, it's been shown to improve sleep quality, so you wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day.

Chamomile

Chamomile has a natural sedative effect but can also reduce inflammation which can help recovery post workout. You can use chamomile tea or as an oil infusion. They both have the same effects.​

Magnolia Bark

Chinese medicines have used magnolia bark for thousands of years to help with alleviating anxiety. Western scientists believe this is because of the honokiol that is inside it.​

Passion Flower

The passion flower is used in a lot of commercial sleep medicines today. This is because it increases the amount of GABA in the body.​

Bacopi Monierir

Bacopi monierir, or Bacopa, is an Adaptogen. This means it blocks stress messages to the brain at a chemical level.​

Mucuna Pruriens

Mucuna Pruriens is used as a neurotransmitter for the testosterone L-Dope.​

Cannabis

Even though it’s illegal in some countries, cannabis can be used to relax the mind and body. It does this by reducing pain and muscle spasms, using ‘cannaboids’, which are produced by the drug. You can check out if CBD can increase muscle weakness.

Magnesium

Next on the list is magnesium.

This mineral plays a key role in your nervous system, helping to calm your nerves and relax your muscles.

In other words, it's like a chill pill for your body.

FAQs

Wondering about something we didn't cover?

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help.

What is the best time to take sleep aid supplements?

Most sleep aid supplements are best taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime.

Can I take sleep aid supplements every night?

While most sleep aid supplements are safe for daily use, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Are there any natural alternatives to sleep aid supplements?

Yes, certain foods and herbs, like chamomile and valerian root, are known for their sleep-enhancing properties.

How long does it take for sleep aid supplements to work?

The time it takes for a sleep aid supplement to work can vary depending on the specific supplement and the individual taking it. Generally, most sleep aids start working within 30-60 minutes.

Can I combine different sleep aid supplements?

While it's possible to combine different sleep aid supplements, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so to avoid any potential interactions.

What are the potential side effects of sleep aid supplements?

Just like any other supplement, sleep aids can have potential side effects. These can include drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, and digestive issues. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

How can I improve the effectiveness of sleep aid supplements?

Improving the effectiveness of sleep aid supplements can be as simple as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants close to bedtime.

Do sleep aid supplements interact with other medications?

Yes, sleep aid supplements can potentially interact with other medications. This is why it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Can I use sleep aid supplements if I have a medical condition?

While most sleep aid supplements are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a medical condition, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Are sleep aid supplements addictive?

Most sleep aid supplements are not addictive. However, it's always best to use them as directed and not rely on them as a long-term solution for sleep issues.

Can I use sleep aid supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including sleep aid supplements.

Can children and teenagers use sleep aid supplements?

Most sleep aid supplements are not recommended for children and teenagers. If you're considering a sleep aid supplement for a child or teenager, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional.

How should I store sleep aid supplements?

Most sleep aid supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always follow the storage instructions on the supplement label.

Can I take sleep aid supplements with alcohol?

It's generally not recommended to take sleep aid supplements with alcohol, as it can increase the sedative effects and potentially lead to harmful side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions about combining supplements with alcohol.

No More Sleepless Night

So there you have it, ten complex supplements and ten herbal remedies, each packed with the powerful benefits of better sleep.

Depending on what kind of other stacks you are taking and what works well in your current regimen there is something for everyone here to try.

Whichever product you choose, there is no excuse for poor sleep undermining the gains you are trying to make and leaving you feel sore and tired the following day.

by Nader Qudimat

Forged by iron and cold steel, I'm Nader, a mid-30s natural bodybuilder. Once a 100lb skinny guy, I've transformed into a 200lb muscular athlete with over 15 years of lifting experience. Today, I leverage my transformation and extensive experience to guide countless individuals on their fitness journeys.

Click here to check out my 12 year transformation: Natural 12 Year Transformation

Search This Site

About FitFrek

FitFrek operates as an independent platform, offering comprehensive workouts, programs, routines, guides, and unbiased reviews to accelerate your progress. We pride ourselves on our honesty, delivering straightforward and candid insights. FitFrek does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment services.

FitFrek © 2013 – 2024 All Rights Reserved
Exclusive Site of Nader Qudimat
magnifiercrossmenu
>
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram