Monday, February 20, 2006

Magnesium and Sleep

Magnesium is often called the anti-stress mineral because it has a calming effect on the nervous system when taken. Its soothing properties induce restful sleep. It is useful for someone who is hyperactive,hot-tempered, overly active, or agitated.

Magnesium is part of bones and cells, especially the smooth cells of arteries. It protects the arterial lining from stress caused by sudden blood pressure changes. It also assists in the absorption of calcium and potassium.
Over 300 enzymes need magnesium to function properly.

When combined with B6 it helps to reduce and dissolve calcium phosphate stones. Magnesium is so important that the brain stores twice as much magnesium as other body tissues - this is a "safety supply" to have in the event of a drop in the magnesium reserves.

Foods that are high in magnesium:
Alfalfa, Apples, Apricots, Avocados, Bananas, Black-eyed Peas, Blackstrap molasses, Brown Rice, Cantaloupe, Capsicum, Figs, Garlic, Grapefruit, Green leafy vegetables, Lemons, Lima Beans, Nuts, Parsley, Peaches, Soybeans, Tofu, Whole Grains

Things that increase the nedd for magnesium:
Large amounts of protein, fats, cod liver oil, calcium,and/or vitamin D. Foods high is oxalic acid, such as almonds, chard, cocoa, rhubarb, spinach, and tea. Stress, refined flour and sugar, chemotherapy

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