Magnesium

I know I talked about Manganese in an older post, so don't get confused. Magnesium is an essential mineral that is vital for many functions in our bodies. It helps the body absorb calcium and therefore keeps bones strong. If you are at risk for osteoporosis, magnesium would be a great way to prevent that. It also helps maintain a proper rhythm in the heart and keeps blood from clotting in the heart. A diet with sufficient magnesium can significantly lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and keep the muscles relaxed.

Its really easy to get your daily amount of magnesium. Foods with lots of magnesium include halibut and tuna, almonds and cashews, black beans, artichokes, spinach, barley, and buckwheat flour. Try searing some tuna for dinner tonight, snacking on some almonds between classes, or making buckwheat pancakes for your mom this Sunday morning for Mother's Day!

Here's a great recipe to try for buckwheat pancakes. Instead of maple syrup you may top with sliced fruit such as strawberries or bananas!

Ingredients

2 egg whites 1 tablespoon canola oil 1/2 cup fat-free milk 1/2 cup all-purpose (plain) flour 1/2 cup buckwheat flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 cup sparkling water 3 cups sliced fresh strawberries

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites, canola oil and milk.

In another bowl, combine the flours, baking powder and sugar. Add the egg white mixture and the sparkling water and stir until slightly moistened.

Place a nonstick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. When a drop of water sizzles as it hits the pan, spoon 1/2 cup pancake batter into the pan. Cook until the top surface of the pancake is covered with bubbles and the edges are lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Turn and cook until the bottom is well browned and the pancake is cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes longer. Repeat with the remaining pancake batter.
Transfer the pancakes to individual plates. Top each with 1/2 cup sliced strawberries and serve immediately.