The Power of Magnesium

Do you crave chocolate? Have you ever suffered from acute anxiety, nervousness, tight muscles/cramping, or even bouts of heart palpitations?
There may be a Super (or Macro) mineral that could be your next favorite hero! This Super Mineral is called, Magnesium!
It's called a Macro-mineral due to the fact that is so prevalent in the body. We all need minerals in a perfect ratio for the body to function properly, and Magnesium ranks fourth in overall abundance in the human body. In fact, it's easier to show a deficiency in a mineral than a vitamin--although, many of us only think vitamins when we want to improve our health.

It might be interesting to note that Magnesium is the main mineral found in the "blood" or chlorophyll of plants. Just as Iron runs through our veins, Magnesium runs through the veins of plants. Hence, all dark green plants are rich in Magnesium! We need these dark, leafy greens to assist our bodies in obtaining healthy levels of this wonderful mineral;Magnesium.

Here's one of my favorite facts: Cocoa contains 500 mgs. of Magnesium per 100 gram serving (unsweetened, unprocessed, plain Cocoa powder.) Research has found that "Women especially crave chocolate during the second phase of their menstrual cycle (post ovulatory) which is known to be a time when they are especially low in Magnesium; PMS is known to be characterized by irritability, feelings of anxiousness and tension...all of which are clinical signs of Magnesium deficiency."
Chocolate consumption for health purposes (and for the best Magnesium source) is best via raw and low sugar/high cocoa content with a minimum of 65% cocoa.
Many times Women crave both icecream and chocolate during their cycle, sometimes denoting a deficiency in both minerals, Calcium and Magnesium.

Magnesium is a relaxing mineral so it allows a feeling of "calm" and "relaxed." It's action is to relax the muscles, and has a great affinity to the heart muscles and intestines. So much so, that you will most certainly know if you have taken too much Magnesium...evident in loose stools. Magnesium is water soluble and the body finds a natural way of ridding itself of excess quite efficiently. Which makes Magnesium wonderful for anyone suffering from constipation or cramping.

Signs of Magnesium deficiency include: Confusion, disorientation, loss of appetite, depression, muscle contractions and cramps, tingling, numbness, abnormal heart rhythms, coronary spasms, eye spasms, and seizures.
"Magnesium experts estimate that at least 50% of sudden heart attacks may be due to Magnesium deficiency. Intravenous Magnesium given as soon as possible after a heart attack may provide the best protection for the heart regarding degree of damage done."

Ever had a "Charlie-Horse"? Try some Magnesium!

Magnesium is found in the following foods in order of prominence:
Kelp, Wheat Bran, Wheat Germ, Chocolate/Cocoa, Cashews, Filberts, Peanuts, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Pecans and Walnuts; Molasses, Brewer's Yeast, Buckwheat, Dulse, Millet, Wheat, Rye, Tofu, Coconut Meat dried, Brown Rice, Figs dried, Apricots, Dates, Collard Greens, Shrimp, Corn, Avocado, Cheddar Cheese, Parsley, Prunes dried, Sunflower Seeds, Barley, Dandelion Greens......


Here are a couple recipes for a Tasty Magnesium Treat:

Dark Chocolate and Rosemary Marcona Almond Bark:

Ingredients:
2 (3.5 oz.) of 65% Dark Chocolate Bar (please find Organic and Fair Trade choices)
1 Large Handful of Chopped Rosemary Marcona Almonds (found at Trader Joe's)
Sprinkle of good Fleur De Sel or Sea Salt

Directions:
Melt the chocolate bars on low heat in a skillet (you may also choose to do this on a double boiler, but I don't find it necessary.) *Be cautious not to burn the chocolate.
Add the chopped nuts to the chocolate and mix together. Immediately pour out onto parchment paper, and sprinkle with more chopped almonds and rosemary salt or Fleur De Sel.
Let cool on counter or in fridge. Once cooled, break apart into bark...and enjoy!
(Picture is towards top of Article)


High MAG Shake: (Courtesy of Julie Plunkette)

Ingredients:
1-2 T. Cocoa powder
1-2 T. Molasses
A handful of walnuts/almonds/peanuts combined
1-2 Cups of Almonds Milk
1-2 T. Wheat Germ
1-2 T. Dried Coconut
3-4 Pitted Prunes
1/4 tsp Organic Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions:
Blend and Enjoy!
This will be extremely high in antioxidants, protein, healthy fats and complex carbs for energy.

*A special thanks to Julie Plunkette for your wise knowledge and insight!!

To a relaxed, calm, and healthy body!
Christy~