Magnesium: Why You Need It and How to Get It with Juicing
Magnesium = Magical Mineral
Magnesium, the unsung hero of essential minerals, is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions within our bodies. It plays a role in bone health, muscle function, and energy production, aids in the synthesis of DNA and proteins, and assists in the functioning of the nervous system. With its versatility, magnesium is an essential nutrient that quietly orchestrates countless processes behind the scenes in our bodies.
Essential For Brain & Body
Magnesium plays many roles in the body, including supporting muscle and nerve function, energy production, and protein formation, and helping bones remain strong. It is found in a variety of foods ranging from leafy greens, melons, avocados, nuts, seeds and beans. Every single cell in your body contains this mineral. About 60% of the magnesium in your body lives in the bones, while the rest is found in muscles, soft tissues, and fluids like blood. One of its main roles is that of a “helper molecule” in the biochemical reactions continuously performed by enzymes. It’s involved in:
- Energy creation: converting food into energy
- Protein formation: creating new proteins from amino acids
- Gene maintenance: helping create and repair DNA and RNA
- Muscle movements: aiding in muscle contraction and relaxation
- Nervous system regulation: regulating neurotransmitters, which send messages throughout your brain and nervous system
Getting Enough Magnesium?
Studies suggest that approximately 50% of U.S. adults get LESS THAN the recommended daily amount of magnesium. Low magnesium levels usually don’t cause symptoms, so you may not realize you’re falling short. The recommended intake for magnesium on a daily basis is 410-420 mg/day for men and 310-320 mg/day for women. Many people don’t get that much from their diet, and processed foods are one reason.
Magnesium and Mood
Researchers continue to study how magnesium relates to mood and stress. Magnesium is involved in how the nervous system regulates neurotransmitters. Learn more about mental health and the role juicing can play with the brilliant Ilene S. Ruhoy, MD, Ph.D.
Magnesium and Migraines
Migraine headaches can be so painful and often cause nausea, vomiting, and severe sensitivity to light and sound. Researchers have studied magnesium in relation to migraines. If you get migraines, talk to your doctor. Read Nicole Boyle's juicer spotlight.
And, Finally, Sleep 😴
Magnesium is also a subject of ongoing research related to sleep, and more research is needed to understand how it affects sleep quality. Need more reasons to make sure you’re getting your magnesium? I think these delicious cold-press juice recipes will convince you!
Pineapple Orange
6 Oranges
½ Pineapple
Yield – 32 oz
Watermelon Cantaloupe
6 Cups Cantaloupe
1 Cup Watermelon
1 Cup Honeydew
2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
Yield – 40 oz
Great Greens
3 Stalks of Celery
2 Green Apples
10 Cups of Spinach
½ Lemon
3 Cups of Romaine
Yield – 32 oz
Magnesium Bowl
2 frozen bananas
2 cups frozen berries
2 cups frozen spinach
½ frozen avocado
Put all through the PURE #4 grid
Toppings:
Crushed raw almonds
Diced prunes
Pumpkin seeds
Cacao nibs
And, of course, you can always refer to our Periodic Table of Juicing for more ideas and nutrition information. Here’s a short video to remind you how easy it is to drink your greens!
Sources
- Harvard School of Public Health: Magnesium
- PubMed Central: Vitamins and Minerals for Energy, Fatigue and Cognition
- Healthline: What Are the Health Benefits of Magnesium?
- Science Direct: The Case for an Evidence-Based Reference Interval for Serum Magnesium
- Mount Sinai: Magnesium
- WebMD: Magnesium: Can It Prevent Migraines?
- University of California San Diego: What an Expert Says About Taking Magnesium for Sleep
Medical Disclaimer
PURE is not a medical practice. We are not doctors or medical experts. All content and information on this blog and website is for informational and educational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice, and does not establish any patient-client relationship by using this website.
Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for professional advice. You should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area for your health questions and concerns before making any professional, legal, medical, financial, or tax-related decisions.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before changing your diet, especially if you have a health condition or take medication.