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Why magnesium is an important nutrient in your diet.

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The frequently overlooked mineral, magnesium, helps with muscle contraction and relaxation.

Magnesium is one of the common electrolytes along with sodium, potassium, and calcium.

Magnesium is involved in over300 reactionsin the bodyincluding:

How much magnesium do you need per day?

Almonds

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Theupdated magnesium DVwill be420 milligrams.

For this article, we are using the 420-milligram number to calculate percent DV.

Signs you’re not getting enough magnesium in your diet.

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Sixty-eight percent of Americansdon’t meet the recommended levels of dietary magnesium.

“Typically, the greatest sources of magnesium include nuts and green leafy vegetables,” she adds.

Whole nuts aren’t the only way you could get magnesium.

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The nut butter form of theses nuts high in magnesium is an equivalent and convenient source of the electrolyte.

Not to mention, studies have also linked the consumption of nuts, like almonds, to weight loss.

So get snackin'!

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Necessary minerals like these help your body function at its optimal level.

To get the most magnesium for your buck, see to it to cook your greens.

This increases the amount of magnesium you get per serving by up to 6 times.

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In addition to leafy greens, other vegetables high in magnesium include potatoes, broccoli, and carrots.

Oh, and we mustn’t forget why Popeye loves this green so muchfor the protein.

These nutrients work together to promote healthy vision, boost immunity and even protect against cancer.

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These nutrients can help lower blood pressure and support heart health, reducing your risk for heart disease.

This popular appetizer also boasts a whopping 9 grams of protein per half-cup.

Refining grains removes the nutrient-rich germ and bran, whichlowers the magnesium content substantially.

Low magnesium concentrations are found in some dairy products.

The following are the best sources of animal-based magnesium.