Magnesium is an important mineral for our everyday health and wellbeing. As a mineral, magnesium acts as a co-factor for more than 300 enzyme systems in our body.
Needed for protein synthesis, magnesium regulates hormones and nerve and muscle functioning. It also helps control blood pressure, blood sugar regulation, DNA synthesis and immune health.
Magnesium also plays a vital role in both aerobic and anaerobic energy production, meaning it is critical for making us feel energetic.
What are the signs of a magnesium deficiency?
If you are constantly feeling tired and lacking energy, there is a possibility that you may be low in magnesium. Muscle twitches and cramps are another sign of a magnesium deficiency, caused by an overstimulation of muscle nerves.
Osteoporosis has also been linked to low levels of magnesium, due to weakened bones and lower blood levels of calcium.
10 magnesium-rich foods
Most green vegetables, legumes (lentils, peas, beans), nuts and seeds are rich in magnesium, as are some shellfish, spices and salmon.
It is recommended consuming the following 10 foods to increase your magnesium intake:
- Cashews
- Brazil nuts
- Spinach
- Oats
- Legumes
- Pumpkin seeds
- Soy milk
- Salmon
- Tofu
- Dark Chocolate
