The Health Benefits of Magnesium — Total Soulful Journey

Chances are that you are not getting enough magnesium in your diet and you are not alone. It is estimated that 80 percent of the population is deficient in this important mineral that plays a key role in the function of your cells. According to Dr. Josh Axe, magnesium aids in over 300 cellular functions in your body, which includes playing a vital role in the health of your heart and your blood vessels.

15 Key Benefits of Magnesium

1. Improves sleep

2. Promotes healthy blood pressure

3. Necessary for proper heart rhythm

4. Prevents headaches

5. Important for cell growth and division

6. Creates healthy bones (necessary for calcium absorption)

7. Balances blood sugar levels

8. Promotes healthy cognitive function

9. Eases constipation

10. Prevents migraines

11. Calms muscle cramps and aches

12. Critical for nerve and muscle function

13. Improves the absorption of nutrients

14. Creates cellular energy

15. Calms nerves and anxiety

Signs that you may be deficient in magnesium include:

1. Experiencing insomnia

2. Always feeling tired

3. Sore muscles even when you haven’t worked out

4. Restless leg syndrome

5. Muscle cramps

6. Twitching eyes

7. Acid reflux syndrome

8. Constipation

9. High blood pressure

10. Brain fog

11. Suffering from anxiety

12. Frequent headaches or migraines

What are the key factors that contribute to low magnesium?

1. Poor Diet

2. Chronic Stress

3. Working out (sweating out magnesium)

4. Drinking diuretics like coffee

5. Consuming alcoholic beverages

6. Excess calcium

7. Low stomach acid

The best way to assure that you are getting enough magnesium is to eat foods that are rich in this mineral. As you know I always advocate buying organic food that is grown locally whenever possible.

15 Best Magnesium Rich Foods

1. Spinach

2. Swiss chard

3. Almonds

4. Avacados

5. Figs

6. Salmon

7. Pumpkin seeds

8. Sunflower seeds

9. Peanuts

10. Cashews

11. Bananas

12. Dark chocolate (70% and higher)

13. Black beans

14. Hemp seeds

15. Chia seeds

16. Flax seeds

17. Oats

If you are unable meet your body’s need for magnesium, you may find it necessary to take a supplement. Magnesium comes in many forms such as magnesium threonate, citrate, malate or glycerinate. Depending on your needs it is best for you to consult with your doctor. In general, however, men need 400 to 420 mg and women need 310 to 320 mg per day.

In my recent blog about “Intuitive Eating” I mentioned that I’ve been craving spinach, almonds, peanuts, bananas, and dark chocolate lately. In response to these cravings I have not only increased these foods in my diet, I also started taking 400 mg of magnesium glycerinate per day. As a result I have felt more energetic than usual even on rainy days. I have also had good results with magnesium citrate.

Magnesium is one of the top four minerals that our bodies require for healthy function. If you suspect that you are one of the 80 percent who are not getting enough of this important mineral in your diet, consider visiting your health professional to see if you should be supplementing. It is especially important during cold and flu season to eat properly and stay healthy.

Wishing you good health and ample energy,

Paul

P.S.- This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your doctor regarding supplements. Please click on the heart below if you enjoyed this blog. You can also connect with me on Instagram.

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