Magnesium is a mineral that helps with over 300 body functions, two that are important in any diet plan are metabolism and sleep! Many women are deficient in ths mineral and this works against their diet efforts. Magnesium works by helping our enzyme systems that regulate blood glucose, blood pressure and muscle and nerve function. So lets take a closer look at why these processes are important.
One of the most important weight loss struggles is blood glucose, or insulin level regulation. If you body has too much insulin in the blood stream it will cause insulin resistance which also creates Type 2 diabetes. It is very important to get insulin levels regulated to break the cycle of insulin resistance and high blood glucose levels.
Blood pressure issues can have many causes, but magnesium deficiency can play a part in increased blood pressure. Magnesium many be an even bigger player in high blood pressure than too much sodium. High blood pressure is a health issue due to the many issues that it causes long term, such as, stroke, cardiac disease and kidney failure. Adding magnesium and eating a uhole food diet is the best way to reduce blood pressure, inflammation and maintaining a healthy weight.
Finally, magnesium works to help with muscle and nerve function. Why is that important? Magnesium works with protein to grow muscles and speed up metabolism. As we age, we loose muscle and bone. Adding magnesium and eating protein help to build the muscles in your body stronger, this includes your heart. Building more muscle in turn helps increase your metabolism because muscles burn macros for energy, specifically protein.
So how can we get more magnesium in our diet? Add nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, milk, yogurt and leafy vegetables. It only takes one ounce of almonds to get 20% of the daily recommended daily requirements for magnesium. Antacids also contain magnesium. Rather than adding a supplement it is best to add whole food options to your daily meals that contain magnesium because your body will absorb more of this most helpful nutrient.
Look at your daily meal plan and see if you have leafy greens and beans in your diet, if you don’t try adding them now! You will be glad you did!