Magnesium: A Miracle Mineral for Women

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The Human Genome Project reports that over 3,500 proteins have binding sites for magnesium.  What does that mean?  It means that magnesium is needed for lots of different actions in the body!

Some of these include:

  • Muscle and nerve function

  • Heart rhythm

  • Blood pressure

  • Digestion

  • Blood sugar regulation

  • Brain health

Some signs that you aren't getting enough magnesium could be leg cramps, menstrual cramps, sugar cravings, racing heartbeat, high blood pressure, anxiety and insomnia.  

Green whole foods are a great source of magnesium.  Things like:

  • Chard

  • Kale

  • Seaweed

  • Green smoothies

  • Green beans

Other sources of magnesium are:

  • Beans, lentils

  • Fish

  • Almonds

  • Cashews

  • Sesame seeds

  • Pumpkin seeds

  • Whole grains

  • Bone broth

  • Dark chocolate (This is why you crave it during your period!)

However, due to soil depletion, stress, and perhaps not getting your veggies every day (nobody's perfect), supplementation is recommended.

I have experimented with most types of magnesium.  For me I notice the most benefit when I am regular about taking it every day.  The benefits I notice most are less sugar cravings, less insomnia and no menstrual cramps.  

I prefer these sources:

  • Liquid magnesium to add to water

  • Epsom salts for your bath

  • A to B Calm powder

  • Ca Mg Plus by Biotics

  • Amazing Grass greens powder

There is a lot of debate about supplementing with calcium.  Some sources, such as health expert Chris Kresser, report that this type of supplemental calcium is dangerous.  The burst of supplemental calcium can cause calcification of arteries.

At the moment I use some purely magnesium supplements and some that are a mix of calcium and magnesium.  I don't go crazy on taking a lot of calcium, and I choose reputable brands.

I never recommend buying almost any supplements from places like Trader Joe's or Costco.

Recommend magnesium dosing is 320 mg a day for women.  It is fine to take more, but some types of magnesiums at certain dosages may cause you to have a bowel movement.  So just be aware.

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