Magnesium, Please

We did, however, find an excuse to pack your diet full of nuts, seeds and leafy greens. Sorry, we tried!*

Magnesium is a must-have—at least according to our dietary needs, that is. The human body consists of approximately 20-28 milligrams of magnesium, with 50 percent alone going straight to the skeletal system. The rest is stored in muscle, soft tissue and other bodily fluids. A magnesium deficiency could cause a buildup of problems, including insulin resistance and coronary heart disease.

Looks like those things your mother told you at the dinner table were somewhat plausible. After all, she was right: Drinking milk (which, you guessed it, is high in magnesium) does give you strong bones. One of the major pros in magnesium consumption is the role it plays in the assimilation of calcium into bone and the activation of vitamin D in the kidneys. Magnesium intake has not only been associated with greater bone density, it has been proven to lower the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Ditch the straws—a milk mustache sounds really good right about now.

Your heart beats for magnesium. Helpful in its endeavors to maintain a steady heartbeat and normal blood pressure, magnesium is a must-have supplement for a happy heart.

Magnesium is not limited to a healthy heart and strong bones, however. Magnesium is also found in 300 different enzymes in your body, including some that help regulate blood sugar. Many people with insulin resistance also experience high levels of magnesium output in their urine, explaining the body’s lack thereof. If you want to avoid type 2 diabetes, magnesium may be crucial. Ask your doctor.

How about those green veggies now? If you’re still crinkling your nose, try these magnesium-rich

All milk products contain magnesium. Last time we checked, this put ice cream on the qualifying list—in moderation, of course.

BANANAS. Potassium and magnesium? That’s a two-for-one if we ever saw one.

DARK CHOCOLATE. See, we told you we were trying! Paired with fresh fruit, we would say this makes for a pretty awesome dessert.

AVOCADO. One sliced avocado coming right up. You will easily consume 15 percent of your daily recommended serving of magnesium in one sitting— or on one sandwich, whichever you choose.

FISH. Make it a goal to serve this protein once a week. Salmon salad? We think yes.