Magnesium
The source of all the minerals in the world and in our bodies is stardust from the old stars.
Magnesium is an important co factor and mineral utilized in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. The reactions that cannot occur without magnesium are:
Protein synthesis
DNA and RNA nucleic acid synthesis
Communication between cells (cell signaling)
Neuromuscular transmission
Cellular glucose utilization, blood sugar levels regulation
Blood pressure regulation
Energy production from carbohydrates and fat
Transport of calcium and potassium ions (needed for nerve conduction, muscle contraction and regular cardiac function)
Antioxidant glutathione production
Muscle and vein relaxation
Why do magnesium levels decrease?
Refining of foods
Consumption of refined foods
Reduced consumption of vegetables
Reduction of water magnesium levels due to purification
Reduction of soil in magnesium content
Degradation of soil flora
Rapid growth of vegetables and fruit secondary to over fertilization
Consumption of carbonated beverages
Extreme coffee consumption
Protein pump inhibitors
Diuretic anti hypertensive medications
Chronic stress
Inadequate absorption secondary to intestinal diseases (long-standing diarrhea, inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, bowel operations, non celiac gluten sensitivity)
Type II Diabetes (increased excretion from kidneys)
Alcohol dependence, intensive alcohol use
Advanced age (both reduced absorption and increased renal excretion)
Magnesium causes low or very high susceptibility to disease:
Migraine
Fibromyalgia
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Heart rhythm abnormalities
Osteoporosis
Metabolic syndrome
Hypertension
Type II Diabetes
Insulin resistance
Systemic inflammation
Ischemic brain vascular diseases
Delayed wound healing
Which foods are high in magnesium?
Green leafy vegetables
Red meat
Offal
Nuts
Saltwater fish
Yoghurt and kefir
Whole-wheat, unprocessed cereals
Pulse (legumes)
Avocado
Okra
Dried fruits
Banana
Bitter chocolate
Magnesium preparations can cause diarrhea or stool softening in susceptible people. If you have kidney disease, using diuretic medication or combined prescription medication, and you are have other diseases that you are being followed-up, consult your doctor before taking supplements.