Consumers who eat more magnesium-rich foods have a lower risk of ischemic stroke, according to an analysis of 7 international studies of 250,000 people.
Over a period of about 12 years, 6,500 of the participants suffered a stroke, the researchers report.
The results show that for every 100 mg of magnesium taken with food every day, the risk of ischemic stroke is reduced by 9%, says Susanna Larson, a professor at the Carolingian Institute in Stockholm.
The main source of magnesium is green leafy vegetables. Foods rich in the mineral include nuts, legumes and whole grains.
The recommended daily intake of magnesium is about 330 mg for men and about 280 mg for women. Requirements range from 40 to 280 mg for infants to adolescents.
Magnesium in the composition of some inorganic compounds and is important for the mineralization of bones and enamel. However, even more important is its role in a wide range of metabolic processes - from the synthesis of ribonucleic acids - DNA and RNA, to that of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
It is responsible for the membrane transport of other electrolytes, is related to the conduction of nerve impulses, to the contraction of smooth and transverse striated muscles, including the muscles in the vessels and the heart.
The results are published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.