According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of all Americans have at least one of these three risk factors for heart disease and heart attack: high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Diet, lifestyle and medication (when needed) all play a role in prioritizing cardiovascular health.
Related: I'm a Cardiologist, and This 'Relaxing' Habit Is Actually Harming Your Heart Health
PhotoAlto/Frederic Cirou/Getty Images
“Magnesium is a vital mineral that helps maintain a regular heart rhythm by regulating electrical signals in the heart muscle,” she explains.
“Magnesium supports healthy blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, which reduces cardiovascular strain,” Routhenstein says, adding to this.
Routhenstein explains that another reason why getting enough magnesium is important for cardiovascular health is that it helps support healthy cholesterol levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which are both important for avoiding heart disease.Both experts say that people 50 and older need to be especially mindful to get enough magnesium. “Older adults lose more magnesium through their kidneys, tend to take in less magnesium in their food and tend to absorb less when they do take it. Chronically low magnesium can worsen hypertension, stroke, heart failure and arrhythmias,” Dr. Han says.
Want to keep your bones strong? This is another reason why getting enough magnesium is important, especially as we age and it’s natural to lose bone density.
How To Make Sure You’re Getting Enough Magnesium
Now that you know why getting enough magnesium is important for cardiovascular health comes the next big question: How can you make sure you’re getting enough of it? As with any nutrient, it’s best to meet your magnesium goals through diet, if possible.“Good food sources of magnesium include unrefined whole grains, spinach, nuts, legumes and white potatoes,” Dr. Han shares. These foods can be integrated into any eating plan, whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or Paleo. Routhenstein says that, fortunately, the majority of people who are eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet are getting enough magnesium.
Even if you follow a balanced diet, it’s a good idea to have your magnesium levels checked at your annual doctor’s appointments to make sure you’re getting enough. Dr. Han says that if blood tests indicate that your magnesium levels are low, then it’s a good idea to consider taking a magnesium supplement.
While getting enough magnesium is important for heart health, Routhenstein says that it’s important to remember that it’s just one nutrient your body needs to thrive. “Getting adequate amounts of other key nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, folate, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C, supports cardiovascular function, bone health and healthy aging as well,” she says.
But you can also rest assured that anytime you dig into a baked potato, bowl of chili or snack on a handful of nuts, you’re doing your heart a favor.
Related: This Is the Worst Type of Meat for Heart Health, According to a Cardiologist
Sources:
Michelle Routhenstein, RD, CDCES CDN, preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely NourishedDr. Frank Han, MD, cardiologist at OSF HealthCareWhite, C. (2004). Study indicates nine risk factors explain most heart attacks.BMJ. 329(7465):527About Heart Attack Symptoms, Risk, and Recovery. Centers for Disease Control and PreventionMagnesium. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary SupplementsHence then, the article about this nutrient is key for protecting your heart after 50 according to a cardiologist was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( This Nutrient Is Key for Protecting Your Heart After 50, According to a Cardiologist )
Also on site :