A large study at Harvard School of Public Health showed that higher intakes of magnesium were associated with a 22% decrease in the risk of ischemic heart disease. Almost all of the magnesium in the study came from food and researchers suggest to increase magnesium-rich foods such as whole grains, nuts, and vegetables, rather than take supplements to get the benefits. Research shows the estimated intake among men and women is well below the daily recommendation for magnesium, and 70-80% of elderly Americans do not get enough magnesium in the diet. Peanuts are known for heart-health benefits due to their high content of healthy oils, but they are also officially a “good source” of magnesium. In fact, a study at Purdue University that included peanuts on a daily basis for three weeks showed that not only was intake of magnesium increased in those fed peanuts, but blood magnesium also improved to recommended levels. To learn more about how peanuts decrease the risk of heart disease click here.