Good for your health and your brain.
Magnesium, a mineral in your body, is essential to good health, according to the government Office Of Dietary Supplements.
And it’s got some cognitive benefits too.
(Note: Who knew there is a government agency for supplements? Part of the National Institutes of Health. And it’s pretty darned good too.)
Here’s some good stuff that magnesium does for you:
- Helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function
- Keeps heart rhythm steady
- Supports a healthy immune system
- Keeps bones strong
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels
- Promotes normal blood pressure,
- Involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis
- Aids in preventing and managing disorders such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
A brain bonus
Research from Massachusetts Institute of Technology shows that 420 milligrams of magnesium for males, and 320 milligrams for females helps maintain the plasticity of nerve cells, as well as several levels of neurotransmitters.
Magnesium deficiency in your diet may result in a short attention span, confusion, memory loss, insomnia, mood changes, apathy and fatigue.
Get it from food
Good sources of magnesium:
- Halibut (3 ounces will give you 90 milligrams)
- Green vegetables such as spinach
- Legumes (beans and peas)
- Nuts (cashews, peanuts) and seeds
- Potatoes
- Rice
- Yogurt
- Avocados
- Whole, unrefined grains. Bread made from whole grain wheat flour provides more magnesium than bread made from white refined flour.
- Tap water can be a source of magnesium, but the amount varies according to the water supply.
- And, YES!, chocolate milk (33 milligrams).
And after a delicious grilled halibut, washed down with a cold glass of chocolate milk, why not test the results and play some Brain Games
