We all know that the right amounts of daily minerals and nutrients are essential for keeping our bodies in great working order. But did you know that up to 75% of people on a western diet suffer from a magnesium deficiency? So, in addition to eating loads of nuts, seeds and leafy dark-green vegetables, it’s important to also supplement your diet with other sources of magnesium. Here’s why:
1 It’s good for your heart (especially on a big night out)
Magnesium promotes a healthy blood pressure and prevents an irregular heartbeat . If you’re planning to hit the town, take a supplement such as Solal Magnesium Glycinate (R238), and watch your alcohol intake as large amounts of alcohol flushes the mineral from your body.
2 It keeps you calm to carry on (and helps you sleep better, too)
If you suffer from anxiety or mood swings, lack of magnesium could be the culprit. The mineral has been shown to restore healthy intestinal bacteria that’s linked to an improvement in mood and restorative sleep, so ensure your dinner is filled with lots of magnesium-loaded foods.
3 It gives you the energy to perform at your best (and it’s an excuse to eat almonds)
Research shows that exercise – and some hormone replacement medications – deplete magnesium, which your muscles require for an optimal energy supply and to prevent cramps. So eat a handful of magnesium-rich, energy releasing almonds or walnuts before your workout.
4 It builds stronger bones (and we all need that)
Recent research suggests that supplementing with magnesium may be more important than calcium for bone health. This is because magnesium helps vitamin D improve bone density and prevent a loss of calcium.
Now that you’ve sorted the magnesium in your diet, why not try these six snacks that are as healthy as they are satisfying!
