Low Magnesium levels make vitamin D ineffective!
A recent review published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found Vitamin D can't be metabolized without sufficient magnesium levels. You can link to the full write-up here.
In Summary, Vitamin D can't be metabolized without sufficient magnesium levels, meaning Vitamin D remains stored and inactive for as many as 50 percent of Americans. Furthermore, Vitamin D supplements can increase a person's calcium and phosphate levels even while they remain Vitamin D deficient. People may suffer from vascular calcification if their magnesium levels aren't high enough to prevent the complication.
"Study Abstract
Nutrients usually act in a coordinated manner in the body. Intestinal absorption and subsequent metabolism of a particular nutrient, to a certain extent, is dependent on the availability of other nutrients. Magnesium and vitamin D are 2 essential nutrients that are necessary for the physiologic functions of various organs. Magnesium assists in the activation of vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis to influence the growth and maintenance of bones. All of the enzymes that metabolize vitamin D seem to require magnesium, which acts as a cofactor in the enzymatic reactions in the liver and kidneys. Deficiency in either of these nutrients is reported to be associated with various disorders, such as skeletal deformities, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. It is therefore essential to ensure that the recommended amount of magnesium is consumed to obtain the optimal benefits of vitamin D.
Future Research
Magnesium is an essential cofactor for vitamin D synthesis, and activated vitamin D, in turn, can increase intestinal absorption of magnesium and, therefore, can form a feed-forward loop to maintain its homeostasis. With regard to the musculoskeletal system, future study may explore the synergistic effect of vitamin D and magnesium levels along with osteopathic manipulative treatment on performance. The roles and regulation of magnesium in health and diseases are a rapidly evolving area. Studies have shown that magnesium supplementation can increase the effectiveness of vitamin D activity; therefore, further controlled studies should determine the dose of magnesium required for a particular clinical situation for reducing vitamin D–associated disorders.
Conclusion
Magnesium homeostasis is maintained by the delicate interactions of the intestine, bone, and kidneys. Magnesium is an essential cofactor for vitamin D synthesis and activation and, in turn, can increase intestinal absorption of magnesium and establish a feed-forward loop to maintain its homeostasis. Dysregulation in either of these nutrients can be associated with various disorders, including skeletal deformities, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic syndrome.91 A core principle of osteopathic medicine lies in promoting the body's innate ability to heal itself. A better understanding of how magnesium supplementation might reduce complications related to vitamin D deficiency would help improve patient care."
We suggest the following relevant links:
nourish me blog on importance of magnesium and how to best get it (foods and types of supplements)
nourish me blog: time for Vitamin D
nourish me blog: Pregnant? Ensure sufficient Vitamin D!
nourish me blog: High blood pressure and magnesium - further study results
nourish me blog: Magnesium - the miracle mineral
nourish me nutrition & health news: Vitamin D - new research on D3 vs. D2
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