Monday, June 23, 2014 by: Michael Ravensthorpe

Tags: magnesium sources, kelp, blackstrap molasses

(NaturalNews) Magnesium is a vital macromineral that is needed for

more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It regulates enzyme

reactions, aids the production of ATP, helps the body transport ions

across the cell membranes and much more. Indeed, all of the body's

organs require magnesium to function properly.

Unfortunately, magnesium deficiencies are pandemic worldwide. In

the United States alone, experts estimate that between 50 and 80

percent of the population suffers from a deficiency, which can lead

to anxiety, restless leg syndrome, nausea, muscle cramps,

insomnia and a host of other stress-related conditions. (1)

Though poor diets are partially to blame, the biggest reason for this

pandemic is ongoing soil erosion, which has significantly reduced the

mineral content of the earth. Consequently, many popular fruits and

vegetables that used to contain magnesium no longer do. (2)

Therefore, if you want to prevent or treat a magnesium deficiency

through diet, you need to focus on certain foods that still retain their

magnesium content. The best of these foods are listed below.

Kelp

Unlike land vegetables, sea vegetables have retained their mineral

compositions for centuries and remain the best source of many

essential minerals. One hundred grams (almost 1 cup) of kelp, for

instance, contain approximately 121 milligrams of magnesium, or 30

percent of the recommended daily intake (RDI). Kelp is also one of the

best sources of iodine, another mineral in which many individuals are

unknowingly deficient. (3)

Worried about radiation in seaweed? Numerous reputable seaweed

suppliers such as Maine Coast Sea Vegetables now monitor their

products for possible radiation contamination. As a general rule,

though, favor seaweed sourced from the Atlantic rather than the

Pacific.

Blackstrap molasses

Since the roots of sugar cane grow deep into the soil, this tall, juicy

plant is able to tap into a large number of nutrients that other plants

cannot reach. This is the reason why organic, unsulphured blackstrap

molasses -- the treacle-like byproduct of sugar cane refinement -- is so

rich in essential minerals like iron, calcium, manganese, selenium,

potassium and -- you guessed it -- magnesium. In fact, just 1

tablespoon of this dark, viscous molasses will provide the body with 48

milligrams of easily digestible magnesium. (4)

Cacao

There's a good reason why magnesium deficiencies often manifest in

the form of chronic chocolate cravings: Cacao beans, the dried and

fermented beans from which chocolate is made, are one of the most

magnesium-rich foods in the world. One cup of powdered cacao beans

contains a whopping 429 milligrams of magnesium, which is just over

100 percent of the RDI. (5) Unfortunately, the oxalic acid found in

cacao beans prevent this magnesium from being absorbed

completely, but you still get a good dose of it -- that's why

cacao and cacao products make you feel relaxed and energized

after eating them.

Rice bran [tarate de orez]

According to Self's "NutritionData," rice bran is the world's greatest

source of magnesium. Just 1 cup of this byproduct of the rice milling

process contains an incomparable 922 milligrams of magnesium, or

more than twice the RDI. It is also unusually high in manganese,

phosphorus, iron and the B vitamins. (6)

Like blackstrap molasses, rice bran is an excellent gluten-free nutrient

supplement and can be added to cereals, soups, muffins, cakes and

other baked goods. In fact, a lot of recipes that incorporate blackstrap

can also incorporate rice bran, providing you with a double dose of

magnesium.

Sources for this article include:

(1) http://www.dumblittleman.com

(2) http://www.enotalone.com

(3) http://nutritiondata.self.com

(4) http://nutritiondata.self.com

(5) http://nutritiondata.self.com

(6) http://nutritiondata.self.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

About the author:

Michael Ravensthorpe is an independent writer whose research

interests include nutrition, alternative medicine, and bushcraft. He is

the creator of the website, Spiritfoods, through which he promotes the

world's healthiest foods.

Learn more:

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