Magnesium may reduce diabetes risk

A recent meta-analysis on magnesium-rich foods -- such as nuts, leafy green veggies, and milk -- revealed that a diet rich in this mineral may reduce the risk of diabetes.

The Swedish reviewers (not to be confused with the Swedish Chefs) looked at studies involving a total of over 280,000 participants. They found that for every 100mg increase in magnesium consumption, the development risk of type 2 diabetes decreased by 15%. Researchers speculate that magnesium may improve insulin sensitivity, hence the risk reduction.

The recommended daily allowance for magnesium is 420mg per day for men and 320mg per day for women. The trouble is, people tend to fall quite short of this mark. If you're finding it difficult to get the RDA of magnesium from your diet, taking a daily multi-vitamin - such as Centrum - could also do the trick.