An important mineral for the health of the central nervous system, magnesium is a crucial element in over 300 body reactions. It is a vital catalyst in helping enzymes produce energy and protein for memory neurons, and it also assists in the uptake of calcium and potassium. Magnesium helps maintain proper blood pressure levels by blocking the buildup of calcium inside the vessel walls. Studies have shown that magnesium deficiencies increase the risk of free radical damage in certain memory cells. In the Alzheimer's patient, magnesium levels are typically very low.
European studies have demonstrated that a magnesium deficiency increases the chance of death from a heart attack by 50 percent. Studies in Guam established that when aluminum levels are high, magnesium and calcium levels are low. Aluminum is found in cosmetics, laxatives, wait-loss preparations, baking powder, and some food additives, as well as in many cooking utensils.
Magnesium is present in most foods, especially dairy products, fish, meat, and seafood. Apples, avocados, bananas, blackstrap molasses, brewer's yeast, brown rice, garlic, green leafy vegetables, lemons, nuts, sesame seeds, wheat, and whole grains are other excellent sources.
Some of the positive effects of magnesium on the memory body include the following:
Take 250 to 350 mg of magnesium every day. If pregnant, your doctor may recommend that you take more. For optimum results, take magnesium glass at night, and be sure you take twice as much calcium with it. Some magnesium typeset, such as magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate, are not recommended.
Cautionary note: Do not take magnesium after meals as is it weakens normal stomach acids. Be aware that the consumption of large quantities of fats, cod liver oil, calcium, vitamin D, and protein decrease magnesium absorption. Fat-soluble vitamins also hinder the absorption of this mineral, as do foods high in oxalic acid such as almonds, cocoa, rhubarb, and spinach.