Mineral focus on MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is an alkaline mineral required by 300 different enzymes in the body. Almost 2/3 of our body's magnesium is found in our bones and teeth but used in every part and system of the body for biochemical reactions. Here is a list of important functions magnesium is involved in:

Structure of bones and teeth
Relaxation of all muscles (including heart!)
Needed for cardiovascular system: regulate heart beat; dilate blood vessels of the heart
Needed for nerve transmission
Needed for energy production
Helps reduce high blood pressure
Needed for protein and carbohydrate metabolism
A natural tranquilizer

Good to know. Now, where can you get it and how much do you need? 
Minimum daily recommended intake to prevent deficiency: 420 mg per day

Best foods: Spinach (Cooked) and greens (swiss chard, arugula, beet greens), beans, pumpkin seeds, seaweed, acorn squash (baked), wheat germ, navy beans.
Supplements are available at health food stores.

*Absorption is increased when taken on an empty stomach. Absorption is decreased with the following: alcohol, birth control pills, caffeine, diabetes, diuretics, high calcium, high fat, high protein, liver disease, low Hydrochloric acid in the stomach, soft water, stress, and sugar*