Hey Naija‑UK family! Have you noticed how magnesium is suddenly the “it” mineral? Everyone’s talking about it — but is it just hype, or could it really help you feel better? Let’s break it down.
🌿 What is Magnesium & Why Does It Matter?
Magnesium is a mineral your body needs to keep your heart, nerves, muscles, and bones healthy.
It also helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, and even supports your immune system.
Fun fact: Over 300 things your body does every day depend on magnesium!
✅ Are You Getting Enough?
Good news: if you eat well, you probably are!
- Recommended daily amount: 320mg for women, 420mg for men
- You can easily get this from spinach, pumpkin seeds, beans, plantain, bananas, avocados, whole grains, and nuts.
For example:
A serving of spinach + a handful of almonds + a banana = about 190mg of magnesium already!
⚠️ When Do You Need Extra?
Some people may need more magnesium, especially if you:
- Are pregnant (to prevent things like preeclampsia)
- Have high blood pressure, diabetes, insomnia, migraines, or muscle cramps
- Drink alcohol a lot (it makes you lose magnesium)
- Have digestive conditions (like Crohn’s or frequent diarrhoea)
🧪 How Do I Know if I’m Low?
Mild lack of magnesium can cause:
- Tiredness, nausea, or loss of appetite
- Muscle cramps or numbness (in severe cases)
💡 If you’re worried, your GP can do a simple blood test.
🚫 Can You Take Too Much?
Yes! Too much magnesium can cause:
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Even breathing problems (rare)
This mostly happens if you take high-dose supplements or have kidney issues.
🥗 Best Sources of Magnesium
💚 Spinach & leafy greens
🥜 Nuts & seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
🍌 Bananas & plantains
🥑 Avocados
🍫 A bit of dark chocolate (go easy sha!)
🌾 Beans & whole grains
💊 Should You Take a Supplement?
👉 If you eat well, you probably don’t need one!
👉 If you have insomnia, headaches, or muscle cramps, some people find magnesium supplements help — but talk to your GP first.
👉 Don’t just copy what friends are taking — some supplements can clash with medicines.
🤝 Naija‑UK Connect Top Tips
✅ Eat a balanced diet — think Nigerian favourites like ugwu (fluted pumpkin leaves), beans, and plantain.
✅ Don’t waste money on “miracle” magnesium pills if you don’t need them.
✅ If you buy a supplement, stick to less than 350mg per day, unless your doctor says otherwise.
✅ Got a long-term condition? Always check with your GP before adding new supplements.
🌟 Bottom Line
Most of us get enough magnesium if we eat well. So keep your diet colourful and healthy — your body will do the rest!
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