Your body needs various minerals to function optimally, but there’s one essential mineral that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves: magnesium. This miracle mineral is responsible for numerous functions, including producing energy at the cellular level, maintaining healthy blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and preventing blood sugar spikes. Despite its importance, about half of all Americans are deficient in magnesium.
Magnesium’s role in blood sugar control
Magnesium plays a crucial role in the metabolism of sugar. It enables insulin to keep your blood sugar levels under control. An analysis of the benefits of magnesium reveals that the mineral can lower your risk of developing diabetes and help those who already have diabetes maintain better heart health.
Other health benefits of magnesium
The list of magnesium’s health benefits doesn’t end there. This essential mineral also:
- Lowers your risk of hip fractures. A study in Norway discovered that people who consume water with higher levels of magnesium have a lower chance of breaking their hips.
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Reduces your risk of certain types of stroke. Magnesium has been shown to lower the risk of stroke, specifically cerebral infarction and ischemic stroke, which occur when blood flow is cut off to the brain.
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Supports better brain function. Research conducted at MIT demonstrates that having sufficient amounts of magnesium can help the neurons in the brain form connections, leading to improved memory.
Getting enough magnesium through diet and supplementation
The best food sources of magnesium are dark, leafy green vegetables, nuts, legumes (like peas and beans), soy, and dairy products. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that even some of the richest dietary sources may not provide adequate levels of magnesium. For example, a one-cup serving of cooked spinach contains only 157 mg of magnesium, while one raw cup provides just 24 mg. Adult women require 310-320 mg of magnesium daily, and men need 400 mg.
Due to the difficulty in getting enough magnesium through diet alone, supplementation can be crucial to maintain optimal health. Magnesium supplements are generally inexpensive and can provide invaluable benefits. In addition to its essential functions, magnesium may also help with digestion: when your digestive system starts acting up, a little extra magnesium can help things run more smoothly.
Conclusion
Given the myriad benefits of magnesium and the potential consequences of deficiency, it’s clear that magnesium is a mineral you shouldn’t go without. To learn more about the importance of magnesium in your overall health, you can explore various high-authority health websites for additional information.
Maintaining the right amount of magnesium in your system can make a significant difference to your overall well-being and quality of life. So, don’t forget this essential, miracle mineral when looking for ways to improve your health.
