Knowledge is power

Magnesium ions are essential to the basic nucleic acid chemistry of life, and thus are essential to all cells of all known living organisms. In other words, Magnesium could help you live longer. In an 18-year study, French researcher determined that men with the highest blood levels of the mineral have a 40 percent lower risk of early death than those with the lowest levels. The researchers think this could be because low magnesium levels are associated with greater inflammation, which is linked to heart disease and cancer.

The Kicker? Fifty-six percent of the population doesn’t consume an adequate amount of the mineral. Magnesium is the eighth most abundant element on Earth and there are no excuses for not consuming enough of it. To boost your intake, snack on roasted pumpkin seeds, which contains 150 milligrams of magnesium per ounce which is about half the amount you need daily. Other good sources of magnesium are green vegetables and most notably spinach; half a cup of spinach contains 80 milligrams of Magnesium. Whole grains are also a great source for this miracle mineral.