Glossary

M

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that helps the body get energy from the food we eat. Magnesium also helps your muscles, heart and bones stay healthy. The best sources of magnesium are whole grains, green leafy vegetables (especially spinach and kale), nuts, seeds and legumes (lentils, kidney beans, chick peas, etc.).

Menopause

Menopause is a natural part of the woman’s aging process, which occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of a woman's menstrual periods. Symptoms include hot flashes, fatigue, vaginal dryness, changes in sleep, changes in mood, and irritability.

Metabolic Syndrome

the name of a medical condition marked by having at least three risk factors that increase your chance of developing heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. The risk factors are: high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol and obesity.

Microorganism

Living things too small to be seen except under a microscope. Microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, molds and yeasts.

Migraine

A type of painful headache. Symptoms include throbbing pain, nausea and sensitivity to light, sound and smell.

Milk allergy

A reaction to the proteins found in milk. Your immune system reacts to the milk proteins and then triggers a variety of symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, rash and hives.

Mini-stroke

This is also called TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack). The symptoms of a mini-stroke are exactly the same as those for a full stroke. But with a mini-stroke, the symptoms go away after a few minutes or hours. Many people can have a mini-stroke without even knowing it. Having a mini-stroke or TIA puts you at a higher risk for developing a full stroke another time.