Magnesium

Is also called the “iron” of the plant world as it is the central atom of chlorophyll

It is the 4^th most prominent mineral in the body and plays a crucial role in activating hundreds of enzymatic reactions.

It is responsible for the proper formation of bones, maintaining normal muscle function, regulating body temperature, and proper absorption of calcium. It also regulates the production of stomach acid and promotes the movement of stools.

Increasingly, medical research is starting to believe that magnesium and other minerals missing from today's diet might prevent cognitive disorders such as ADD, ADHD and bipolar disorder, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) as well as help prevent Alzheimer's and mental decline due to aging.

Athlete's sometimes use Magnesium to increase energy and endurance and it has been shown to aid in repairing certain skin conditions when applied topically.

A Magnesium Deficiency can lead to:

·       Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression

·       Asthma

·       Cramping (pre-eclampsia, muscle spasms)

·       PMS

·       Palpitations, Hypertension, Chest pains

·       Higher levels of cholesterol

·       Increased Blood sugar

·       Restless Leg Syndrome

·       Headaches, Backaches

·       Osteoporosis

·       Poor fatty acid metabolism and kidney and/or gall stones

·       Tingling and numbness in the limbs and extremities

·       Constipation

Magnesium also regulates our immune system and a magnesium deficiency has been linked to triggering or worsening symptoms of Fibromyalgia, Hyperthyroidism, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Reynaud's disease.

Research has shown that Magnesium is essential for the proper absorption of Calcium and that too often, excess Calcium is the simplest explanation of a Magnesium deficiency.

In order to avoid this and for proper absorption, we should eat or supplement with a ratio of

2:1 Calcium to Magnesium.

Too much calcium in the body has actually been shown to be responsible for an increased risk of osteoporosis, Heart attacks and kidney/ Gall Bladder stones.

Because Magnesium is NOT produced by the body, it is important to eat and supplement wisely to make sure that the body receives the proper amount it needs.

Toxins, certain foods, a poor diet and medications often prevent our bodies from properly absorbing what little magnesium and other nutrients we do consume. 

The main culprits for depleting Magnesium in our bodies are:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Sugar
• Smoking 
• Oral contraceptives 
• Diuretics 
• Excess trans and saturated fat 
• Too much calcium

Dosage:              Supplement with a 2:1 ratio of calcium to magnesium

                             For best absorption take magnesium citrate, aspartate or glycinate.

(Magnesium carbonate and sulfate forms can lead to diarrhea and are poorly assimilated by the body.)

Natural Sources of Magnesium:                  

·       Dark greens

·       Nuts & Seeds (almonds, cashews, dry roasted peanuts)

·       Legumes (lentils, Black eyed peas)

·       Whole grains

·       Avocado

·       Apricot, Banana, raisins

·       Halibut

·       Baked potatoe with skin

·       Oatmeal, wheat germ, Wheat Bran