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Writer's pictureSara Childers, RD, LDN

Magnesium and why it is all the rage in the health world nowadays.


Sushi is great for magnesium if it is made with salmon, avocado, tofu, and seaweed!


Magnesium and why it is all the rage in the health world nowadays. This little mineral has been making it’s mark with influencers, health gurus, and lay people alike!

And there is good reasoning for it. Magnesium is one of the most essential nutrients in the body, and yet, the most neglected. Some say that nearly 70% of Americans are deficient in magnesium and never even know it. But when I read what roles magnesium plays in the body, it did not surprise me at all that most of us are likely deficient (1).


According to Dana Habash-Bseiso, MD, magnesium is involved in over 300 different enzyme processes in the body, which all help to regulate different chemical reactions that occur in the body. If you have studied biology or biochemistry in any extensive amount– this is significant to hear. Since our body is made up of billions of enzymes and all of our organs rely on chemical reactions in order to function properly (1)


Magnesium is crucial for:

  • Heart health

  • Regulating nerve and muscle function throughout the body

  • Regulating blood pressure and cholesterol production

  • Bone health - formation of bone density

  • Metabolic health - breaking down fatty acids and protein

  • Helps in regulating blood sugar

  • Helps to regulate neurotransmitters in the brain that support sleep and let the brain rest

  • Helps reduce stress by lower cortisol levels


So many people have insomnia, stress, heart issues, high blood pressure, and unregulated blood sugar. It is no surprise to me that most of us may be deficient in magnesium.


So how do we fix this?


If you have been in the market for magnesium supplements for any amount of time, you would know that there are different types of magnesium that do different things in the body. Some help with relaxation and sleep, while others support digestion and cause you to be more regular. You don’t want to mix up the two.


Supplements that are good for overall magnesium levels since they help with the nervous system and are high absorbable.
  • Magnesium Lysinate Glycinate

  • Magnesium Glycinate Glycinate


Supplements that will make you more regular (do not give these to children):
  • Magnesium citrate


But, there is even a better and more economical way to get magnesium into your diet without having to spend extra money on supplements– NUTRITION! Eating foods that have a lot of Magnesium.


Foods high in Magnesium:
  • Salmon

  • Spinach

  • Pumpkin seeds

  • Black beans

  • Almonds

  • Cashews

  • Figs

  • Dark chocolate

  • Avocados

  • Banana

  • Raspberries

  • High quality soy products (tofu)

  • Turkey





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