Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels stable. It can also be beneficial for those suffering from arthritis, as it can help reduce arthritic pain and inflammation. Although magnesium has not been shown to reverse arthritis, it can help prevent bone fractures and stop the condition from worsening over time. The best way to get enough magnesium is to eat magnesium-rich foods.
Leafy greens, almonds, cashews, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax, and bananas are all excellent sources of magnesium. For example, half a cup of spinach contains 78 milligrams of magnesium for 19% of the Daily Value (DV). Eating spinach also provides anti-inflammatory benefits and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. In addition to eating magnesium-rich foods, taking magnesium supplements may also be beneficial for those with arthritic pain.
A meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials revealed that vitamins K1 and K2 helped prevent bone loss, but that vitamin K2 was superior in preventing hip fractures, vertebrae and other fractures. Overall, getting enough magnesium is an important part of managing arthritis. Eating magnesium-rich foods and taking supplements can help reduce arthritic pain and inflammation, as well as prevent bone fractures and stop the condition from worsening over time.