A review published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found vitamin D can’t be metabolized without sufficient magnesium levels. Magnesium and vitamin D are 2 essential nutrients that are necessary for the functions of various organs. Magnesium assists in the activation of vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium and phosphate. A widely-accepted measurement of vitamin D is 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 (25-OHD3) in serum or dried whole blood. The Canadian 25-OHD3 average is 67.7 nmol/L, considered adequate for bone health but not for optimal health. Only about one-third of Canadians have 25-OHD3 levels above 75nmol/L, the minimum level considered adequate for optimal health.
Magnesium also reduces osteoporosis, helping to mitigate the risk of bone fracture that can be attributed to low levels of vitamin D. Deficiency in either of these nutrients is reported to be associated with various disorders, including cardiovascular diseases and Metabolic Syndrome.
Researchers say the magnesium consumption from natural foods has decreased in the past few decades, owing to industrialized agriculture and changes in dietary habits. Check out this list of foods high in magnesium to aid you in getting more magnesium in your diet. Talk to your trusted healthcare professional about nutrient testing to determine your current magnesium and vitamin D levels.
