Diabetes and obesity tied to low levels of magnesium.

Diabetes and obesity often go hand in hand and have sometimes been referred to as diabesity. New research from Spain points to diabetes and poor metabolic control as factors leading to low levels of magnesium in patients that are obese. With over 48% of patients showing low magnesium levels, the investigators were able to even predict the magnesium levels from HbA1C and fasting glucose readings.

It is no wonder that many doctors promote either magnesium supplements or food groups to boost magnesium levels. Spinach, tofu, lentils, and almonds are all good sources of magnesium. Let’s say you take 400mg of magnesium supplements per day. You could also get your daily dose of magnesium from the following quantities of food as indicated by the US Department of Agriculture:

Spinach- One cup of raw spinach contains about 24 mg of magnesium, while an entire bunch contains 249 mg. In contrast, cup of cooked spinach contains about 78mg.

Almonds- Almonds give you a better bang for you buck. A single cup of raw almonds gives you 383 mg of magnesium.

Sampling a variety of food types for nutritional diversity is always the best way to get your nutrients since you get a balanced “formula” of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.

Bon appetit !