#healthinsider: THE REAL REASON YOU MAY BE TIRED ALL THE TIME

IF CHRONIC FATIGUE, LETHARGY, TIRED ACHING MUSCLES, STRESS, PMT, COFFEE AND CHOCOLATE CRAVINGS ALL SOUND LIKE ANOTHER NORMAL DAY, THEN KEEP READING. bM contributor and Nutritional Medicine Expert, Fiona Tuck explains these symptoms can be your body trying to tell you something.

Magnesium is the ‘mother of all minerals’. It’s the mineral that our bodies rely on to feel fit, healthy and full of vitality but one that many people simply are not getting enough of. This mineral is an important one being that it is a co factor for hundreds of enzyme reactions within the body. These enzymes are vital for a variety of important processes such as the conversion of energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein not to mention healthy DNA synthesis, blood sugar balance, bone health and a calmed nervous system. Magnesium is involved in helping to regulate calcium, vitamin D and hormonal balance so there is little surprise to learn that low magnesium levels can lead to chronic fatigue type symptoms, low mood, PMT, anxiety, eye tics, insomnia, high blood pressure, muscle cramps {which can be due to low calcium too} and a poor tolerance to dealing with stress.

Beginning to sound familiar?

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Alcohol, anti-acid medications, diuretics, high stress levels, some antibiotics and sugar can all rob the body of this vital mineral leaving us feeling tired, depleted, irritable and wanting our next coffee or chocolate fix.
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how to boost your magnesium intake

Magnesium is found in a variety of foods but the best sources tend to be green leafy vegetables, cacao, nuts and seeds. When our magnesium levels are low we can start craving stimulants such as coffee to boost our energy or chocolate which is a natural source of magnesium {but not the sickly sweet milk chocolate commonly found in the confectionary aisle}.

Increasing the following foods in your diet can help boost magnesium:
* Green leafy vegetables
* Chlorella
* Avocadoes
* Nuts and seeds
* Peas
* Bananas
* Figs
* Seafood
* Wholegrains
* Raw cacao
* Dark Chocolate

Magnesium supplements may also be very beneficial in boosting energy levels and calming anxiety however magnesium can be poorly absorbed by the gut so those with poor gut function may do well with a topical application of magnesium oil.

Magnesium can be applied via a spray or an oil or cream to the skin and be absorbed trans dermally via the skin or by soaking in a warm bath of Epsom salts.

Magnesium supplements can be readily purchased from health stores however it is recommended to seek professional advice before taking any supplements as many supplements including magnesium can react with certain medications.

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One study by Harvard University found that high magnesium intake daily reduced the risk of developing diabetes by 33 percent, whilst other studies found that this wonder mineral can be beneficial to help ward off depression, anxiety and migraines.
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Fiona’s insider tip: Aim to include at least two servings of vegetables with every meal and a couple of pieces of fruit daily, reduce sugar, alcohol and processed foods to help up your magnesium intake.

fiona tuck