Learn how to incorporate more magnesium into your diet to address chronic health issues caused by its deficiency.
Magnesium is an essential mineral required by every cell in the body for proper function. From the heart to the muscles and kidneys, all organs rely on magnesium. It plays a crucial role in dental and bone health, activates enzymes, aids in energy production, and regulates levels of calcium, copper, zinc, potassium, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients.
Helps Heart
Magnesium is crucial for maintaining heart health. Research indicates a potential link between increased magnesium intake and a modestly reduced risk of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) in men. Additionally, in a study involving women, higher dietary magnesium intake was correlated with a decreased risk of sudden cardiac death.
Treats Asthma
A population-based clinical study involving over 2,500 children aged 11 to 19 discovered a potential association between low dietary magnesium intake and the risk of asthma. Similarly, a separate study involving more than 2,600 adults aged 18 to 70 yielded similar findings.
Furthermore, various studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of intravenous (IV) magnesium and magnesium administered via a nebulizer in treating acute asthma attacks in both children aged 6 to 18 and adults.
Eases Depression
Magnesium deficiency can lead to reduced serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of upset or depression. Interestingly, prescribed antidepressants have been observed to elevate magnesium levels in the brain, aiding in alleviating depressive states. Moreover, magnesium has been found to be as effective as tricyclic antidepressants in treating depression, particularly among individuals with diabetes.
Magnesium intake has been linked to a reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Increasing dietary magnesium intake may offer protection against the development of Type 2 Diabetes. Studies indicate that magnesium supplements could potentially aid in blood sugar control and improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with diabetes or prediabetes.
Foods abundant in magnesium include
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is a rich source of magnesium and contains high levels of iron, copper, and prebiotic fiber. Additionally, dark chocolate has been associated with benefits for heart health.
Nuts
Nuts such as almonds and cashews are excellent sources of magnesium. They possess anti-inflammatory properties, promote heart health, and can help reduce appetite when consumed as snacks.
Tofu
Tofu is a protein-rich food that also contains magnesium. It can be used interchangeably with paneer in various recipes.
Seeds of flax and pumpkin
Seeds offer remarkable health benefits, especially flax and pumpkin seeds, which boast significant levels of magnesium and abundant antioxidants.
Whole grains
Whole grains serve as superb reservoirs of various nutrients, notably magnesium. Varieties such as wheat, oats, and barley are particularly abundant in this essential mineral.
Additional sources of magnesium
Soaking in a bath infused with Epsom salts
Consider incorporating Epsom salt baths or magnesium flake baths into your routine, aiming for 2-3 times a week or daily if feasible. For baths, it’s suggested to use 2 cups of Epsom salts, while foot baths can benefit from 1 cup.
Many individuals with inadequate dietary habits, reliance on pharmaceutical drugs, or exposure to nutrient-depleted soils may experience dangerously low levels of magnesium. If you suspect deficiency, prioritize replenishing your magnesium levels to support the optimal functioning of your body systems.