Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Are you Getting Enough Magnesium?


It's difficult to get enough magnesium through diet alone. In fact, studies have shown that many Americans don’t consume the recommended amount each day. Compounding this problem is the fact that even foods that are relatively good sources of magnesium may not be absorbed well. Some of the best food sources of magnesium, such as almonds, cocoa and spinach contain oxalic acid, which hinders the absorption of magnesium.

Water Supply as a Source of Magnesium

Some people are lucky enough to have a magnesium-rich water supply and they don't need to worry about getting enough magnesium from foods. Without thinking about it, they drink the magnesium-rich water throughout the day, use it in cooking, and absorb it through the skin as they bathe and shower in it. For the rest of us, a supplemental source of magnesium can be highly beneficial, helping with constipation, anxiety, hypertension, skin health and more.

How to get Enough Magnesium Absorbable Magnesium

The problem with taking magnesium supplements is that they can cause loose stool and make bowel movements more urgent. As a result, a large dose consumed once a day may not be absorbed well. People who get their magnesium the natural way-- through a mineral-rich water source-- don’t have that problem because they don’t take large, unnatural doses of magnesium at one time. Those without a magnesium-rich water supply can simulate the effect by adding magnesium drops or powder to their drinking water and sipping it throughout the day between meals. Additionally, magnesium can be added to bath water in the form of Epsom salts or Dead Sea salt.



Sources:


http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2009/9789241563550_eng.pdf




-Magnesium drops that are great added to water can be purchased here










Thursday, July 12, 2012

A Glass of Wine for your Stomach

“Stop drinking only water, but drink a little wine to help your stomach and your frequent sickness.” -1 Timothy 5:23 (NCV)

Now we have science to back what was apparently common knowledge in the Apostle Paul's day. A recent study showed that red wine helps digestive health by tipping the balance to beneficial gut flora. My experience: a glass of wine in the evening feels great in my sensitive gut and helps keep me away from sweet treats. Just be careful to choose a dry wine so you don’t end up consuming excess sugar with it.

Reference:
http://www.ajcn.org/content/early/2012/05/02/ajcn.111.027847.abstract

Monday, July 9, 2012

Avocado Smoothie

">Avocados are full of satisfying, healthy fat. One avocado has more potassium than two bananas and contains significant amounts of magnesium, vitamin B6, folate and vitamin E. These qualities make them great for skin health. And they’re tasty. Until recently, I didn’t know how to eat them besides making guacamole. This recipe has helped me add them to my family’s diet more regularly.

Avocado Smoothie (serves 1)

In a blender put:

¼ of an avocado
1 cup milk (or milk substitute)
Sugar, honey, stevia or sweetener of choice to taste
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ice cubes

Blend until smooth and serve immediately.