The benefits of magnesium are so many that many people don’t even know them all. Perhaps we’ve heard the word from some yoghurt adverts on TV, but many people don’t know that magnesium is one of the most important nutrients for our brain to function properly. But how many types are there? Do you know? And not all of them serve the same purpose! From improving memory to preventing neurodegenerative diseases, experts have now discovered that there are variants that can improve our cognitive performance. If you want to know how to optimise your brain (yes, as if you were a machine), we’ll tell you all about it below!
What is magnesium?
It is one of the key elements for your body to function, it is an essential mineral that produces energy, regulates blood sugar, protects bones and also participates in neuronal connectivity, memory, and learning. In short, we survive thanks to it practically (and it also makes sure we have energy to carry out our daily life!)
But why is it key in our bodies?
As we have said before, magnesium makes your body work properly:
- It maintains the balance of fluids in the body.
- It helps you not feel so tired
- It makes your body use energy well
- It helps cells divide well.
- It keeps your nervous system in good condition.
- It takes care of your bones and teeth
- It helps your mind to be stable
- It makes your muscles work well.
According to neurologist Alejandro Andersson, director of the Institute of Neurology of Buenos Aires, not all types of magnesium are the same. This doctor comments that there is a special type of magnesium that improves the brain because it can cross a barrier called blood-brain barrier (BBB), like a type of security barrier that protects the brain, and most magnesium supplements fail to overcome it.
So, what is the best type of magnesium?
It is magnesium threonate. This type of magnesium has a chemical structure that allows it to penetrate the BBB easily, making it especially effective at improving synaptic plasticity, in other words, making the neuronal connection much stronger and optimizing memory.
Dr. Andersson explains that, because the brain is isolated by this barrier, most magnesium supplements do not effectively reach the neurons. However, magnesium threonate manages to cross it, allowing key processes such as neuroplasticity and cognitive strengthening.
What does magnesium threonate do in our body?
Consuming this compound can have benefits such as preventing neurological deterioration and promoting mental concentration. Studies carried out so far have shown that this type of magnesium makes your brain have greater retention and therefore, better memory!
And how can I include this compound in my diet?
Including it in your diet is much easier than you think, there are many natural foods that contain this compound, for example, walnuts, almonds, spinach and chard. But, if you don’t like these foods, there is also a solution for “picky eaters”, and you can get it in capsules at any nearby pharmacy.
We do recommend that before you start taking these capsules you consult a specialist (especially if you are already taking other types of vitamin supplements).
And, we are going to leave you now with a delicious recipe high in magnesium that is delicious!
We will use:
- 1 avocado,
- 1 cup of spinach (it is very important that they are fresh!)
- 1 tablespoon of pure cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup of almond milk
- 1 ripe banana
- A teaspoon of cinnamon powder
And very cold water, blend everything and serve it in a glass with ice, this smoothie is delicious and will keep your brain in better shape!