Few people know that this small vegetable contains magnesium, a mineral that plays an important role in relaxing nerves and improving sleep quality.
According to nutritional data from the American Institute of Nutrition, water spinach provides magnesium along with many plant compounds such as flavonoids, natural essential oils and vitamins A, C. Magnesium participates in the regulation of the activity of the central nervous system, helping to reduce nerve irritation, relax muscles and support the body to enter a resting state.
Dr. Carolyn Dean, a magnesium expert, author of The Magnesium Miracle (USA), said: "Magnesium helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the system responsible for relaxation and deep sleep. Magnesium deficiency can make it difficult for the body to sleep, not deeply sleep, or often wake up at night". Supplementing magnesium from natural foods such as water spinach is considered a safe and easy-to-apply daily method.
Not only affecting the nervous system, fennel also supports digestion and reduces bloating, a factor that often makes it difficult for many people to sleep at night. According to Cleveland Clinic, herbs containing natural essential oils can help soothe the intestines, thereby indirectly improving sleep quality.
Another plus point of water spinach is its very low energy content, suitable for people who eat light dinner or the elderly, groups who often experience insomnia. Water spinach can be used fresh, cooked in soup, mixed with salad or mixed with drinking water from water spinach seeds, all of which help the body absorb beneficial minerals and essential oils.
However, experts note that fennel is not a sleeping pill. The effectiveness of sleeping support comes from regular use, combined with a healthy lifestyle such as limiting evening caffeine, sleeping on time and reducing stress. People who are taking sedatives or have special conditions should consult a doctor if they want to use large amounts of herbs.
In the context of more and more people having sleep problems, taking advantage of fenugreek, a natural, easy-to-find and safe source of magnesium, can be a simple nutritional solution but brings long-term health benefits.