Magnesium is a mineral that is sorely missing from the Irish diet. Not only are our soils depleted of this vital nutrient but the foods that are rich sources are not consumed often enough to provide an adequate dose. On top of this, magnesium is depleted with stress, intense exercise, caffeine, certain medication and alcohol. Every single cell in the human body demands adequate magnesium to function, it's considered to be one of the body's most important nutrients.
Magnesium participates in over 300 vital processes in the human body. These processes include: the production and storage of energy, the formation of the nerve signal and the production of proteins. Magnesium is required for optimal bone health and plays a role in muscle function.
Why are so many people lacking magnesium ?
Research shows that the magnesium content of supermarket food is 40% lower than that of 50 years ago. The industrialisation of agriculture is to blame for this dramatic reduction. You can't expect to grow nutrient dense crops from nutrient poor soils.
Most of the magnesium that was once high in soil has been washed away into the ocean. For this reason, seaweed is one of the best food sources. Unfortunately this is not exactly a staple in the Irish diet! To make matters worse, we remove most of the magnesium from our drinking water during the cleaning process. The fluoride that is added, binds to most of the remaining magnesium and forms a compound that is difficult to absorb.
Here are ten more reasons to ensure optimal magnesium intake:
Magnesium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. Together with the support of normal muscle function and nervous system. Magnesium is involved in normal energy-metabolism, phychological functions and electrolyte balance. Furthermore it plays a role in normal protein synthesis and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
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