NUTRITION
Focus on: Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 600 functions in the body. These include maintaining healthy energy levels, regulating the nervous system, and relaxing muscles including the heart. Low levels of magnesium has become a common problem in our modern world mainly because this vital mineral is lost in modern day processing and refining methods.
Our fast-paced lives do not support our magnesium levels since this important mineral is used up in high amounts during periods of stress. Other reasons why you might be deficient include autoimmune conditions, pain – inflammation, hormonal fluctuations, and poor digestion and/or gut health.
Some of the common problems that can emerge when magnesium is low include muscle cramps, low energy/fatigue, mood disorders, sleep problems, constipation, poor appetite and inability to cope with stress.
Here are 5 tips on how to include more magnesium in your diet and lifestyle:
- Increase intake of magnesium rich foods – spinach, pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews, soybeans, and lentils are all great sources.
- Swap alcohol and caffeine for coconut water which is naturally rich in magnesium and other electrolytes to keep you well hydrated.
- Sea vegetables such as Kelp contain generous amounts of this vital mineral.
- Optimize gut health – maintaining healthy levels of friendly bacteria can help to ensure magnesium gets absorbed.
- Adding magnesium flakes to your bath or foot bath before a 15–20-minute soak is a great way to increase magnesium levels as it can be absorbed into your body through your skin.
