Tuesday, September 25, 2018

HEALTH SPECIAL Magnesium is a must


Magnesium is a must

Since it plays a crucial role in biochemical reactions, it’s no surprise that magnesium is a must for healthy bones and teeth

Magnesium is one of the seven essential macro minerals required for a healthy body. Along with calcium and zinc, it is responsible for around 300 biochemical reactions in the human body.

WHY IT MATTERS?
If you have been feeling loss of appetite, headache, nausea, fatigue, muscle pain, cramps, spasms and weakness lately, it might be an early sign of magnesium deficiency in your body. In case these symptoms are left untreated or ignored for long, there are chances that it may lead to serious complications.

CALCIUM’S FRIEND
Bones and teeth can’t be healthy without adequate magnesium in the body. Magnesium deficiency directly harms the skeletal system. Also, bones need calcium backed by magnesium to do their bit. A low magnesium intake, therefore, has been widely associated with osteoporosis, especially in women.

FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Several studies have shown that magnesium deficiency is a biomarker for chronic stress. It also helps ease depression and anxiety by raising levels of the mood-boosting neurotransmitter serotonin.

WHAT TO EAT?
Foods which are rich in fibre are generally rich in magnesium. Some of the best sources of magnesium are dry fruits such as cashewnuts and almonds; wholegrains like wheat, brown rice, and oats; legumes such as black beans, black eyed peas, kidney beans; green leafy vegetables, broccoli, banana and squash; seeds as sunflower and sesame; fresh water fish; dairy products, yoghurt, meat, chocolates and coffee. Munching on dry fruits as fillers between meals, having a banana, broccoli or butter milk as snack would ensure that you have had enough magnesium.

— inputs from Manjari Chandra, clinical nutritionist


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