Can Muffins Prevent Gallstones?
Maybe. If it’s an oat-bran muffin. Studies show that a diet high in magnesium-rich foods may reduce the risk of gallstones. Oat-bran muffins fit the bill.
The Moderate Muffin
One medium oat-bran muffin will serve up anywhere from 50 to 90 milligrams of magnesium, depending on ingredients. Just don’t go eating so many muffins that you turn into one yourself. One of the biggest risk factors for gallstones is extra weight. And you’ll want a muffin recipe that doesn’t go overboard on fat and cholesterol — a diet high in either has been linked to gallstones, too.
How does it occur?
You are more likely to have gallstones if:
You are female.
You are overweight.
You have type 2 diabetes.
You are Native American.
You have sickle cell anemia or another disease that breaks down red blood cells.
Other members of your family have had gallstones.
Magnificent Magnesium
Why magnesium? Without enough of the mineral, triglycerides can soar and HDL levels can drop — a combo that’s linked to cholesterol-packed gallstones. Just about any whole-grain food will boost your magnesium intake better than white-flour products, so check labels closely and make the swap.
Good Sources:
Magnesium is found in whole grain breads and cereals. Other foods containing magnesium include:
Tofu, 120 grams
130 mg
Soybeans, 1/2 cup
80 mg
Cashews, 1 ounce
80 mg
Tomato paste, 1/2 cup
75 mg
Salmon, one average-sized steak (4 ounces)
60 mg
Spinach, 1/2 cup
60 mg
Oatmeal, 1 cup
55 mg
Peanuts, 1 ounce (thirty nuts)
50 mg
For more articles on food and health benefits, browse Encouraging Health.
April 22nd, 2008 at 5:41 pm
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