The Wonders of Magnesium

Many people complain of muscle cramps at night, especially in the legs. These cramps often stem from a magnesium deficiency. This mineral has many properties, one of which is muscle relaxation, making it helpful in such cases. Magnesium can also assist in other conditions, such as constipation. Constipation may result from various factors, including contractions of the colon muscles. In these situations, magnesium helps relax the muscles, aiding internal cleansing.

High blood pressure can also arise from constricted blood vessels, which increases pressure within them. Magnesium can help treat high blood pressure by promoting relaxation of these vessels.

Magnesium is part of a large group of essential minerals crucial for health. Other well-known examples include iron, which is vital for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, and calcium, essential for building teeth, bones, skin, nails, and hair. Iodine is necessary for the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine, which supports numerous bodily processes. There are many other minerals critical for maintaining good health.

As with vitamins, a common question arises: should minerals be taken as supplements? Regarding muscle cramps, for instance, some experts recommend regular supplementation to prevent deficiencies and ensure proper body function. Others argue against relying on supplements when minerals can be obtained through a healthy diet.

Here are some examples of mineral-rich foods:

• Calcium: whole sesame, whole tahini, almonds, cabbage, dried figs, cooked green beans, baked sweet potatoes, and more.

• Magnesium: quinoa, whole wheat, cornmeal, pumpkin seeds, oats, almonds, nuts, and more.

• Iron: quinoa, tofu, chickpeas, red lentils, parsley, dried dates, and more.

Our diet naturally contains many minerals essential for health, and in most cases, it is possible to meet the body’s mineral needs through food. However, deficiencies can occasionally develop due to various reasons, leading to issues like muscle cramps, constipation, and more. Therefore, while it is important to increase the intake of magnesium-rich foods, it is also appropriate, when necessary, to use short-term magnesium supplementation to address existing deficiencies.

Eliyahu Schechter is an iridologist and naturopath.