Magnesium, being the 4th most abundant mineral in our body, is of an extreme importance for our general health. It controls more than 300 body enzymes and has a major role in various chemical processes that improve the metabolic functions.
Take a look at some of the main roles of magnesium:
- relaxes the blood vessels
- regulates the muscle and nerves function
- strengthen the teeth and bones
- regulates the blood sugar and insulin sensitivity
- creates ATP (adenosine triphosphate)
So, lack of magnesium might be a serious problem because it can lead to deterioration of a lot of metabolic functions. Moreover, magnesium deficiency can provoke migraine, anxiety, headaches, depression, fibromyalgia, cardiovascular diseases, sudden cardiac death, and so on.
In addition, magnesium promotes body detoxification by easing the process of synthesis of glutathione, improving athletic performance, energizing the body, and optimizing mitochondria, that prevents cancer.
The mitochondrion represents an organelle in cells that produces energy which is needed for proper function of the organs. So, a mitochondrial dysfunction might cause various health issues. The mitochondrial researcher Ph. D. Rhonda Patrick proves that magnesium is of an essential importance for healthy mitochondria since its oxidative capabilities depend on the mitochondria’s capacity to produce energy in the cells.
Magnesium deficiency
Magnesium can be found in chlorophyll molecules, meaning that if your diet is low in fruits and veggies, but rich in processed foods, you will lack magnesium in your body. According to statistics, 70% of the population in American is deficient in magnesium. Alcohol abuse, poor sleep, prescribed medications, statin, fluoride, and antibiotics also contribute to reduced magnesium levels.
Take look at the most common magnesium deficiency symptoms:
Muscle spasms
Appetite loss
Migraine
Nausea
Headaches
Weakness
A chronic magnesiumdeficiency can cause personality changes, numbness, tingling, coronary spasm, and even abnormal heart rhythm. So, if you want to increase the levels of magnesium in your body, you should try to increase the consumption of dark green leafy veggies, like for instance:
Bok Choy
Broccoli
Spinach
Kale
Beet Greens
Turnip Greens
Romaine Lettuce
Swiss Chard
Collard Greens
Brussels Sprouts
The below-listed foods are also rich in magnesium:
Fatty fish
Raw cacao nib
Seeds and nuts
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Squash
Fruits and berries
Avocado
Spices and herbs such as cumin, mustard seeds, parsley, and fennel
In case you prefer using magnesium supplements, you need to balance it with vitamin K2, calcium, and vitamin D.
Source:
www.thehealthyfoodhouse.com
www.providr.com
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