The Websters dictionary defines the expression, “two peas in a pod,” as two people or things that are like each other. In terms of comparing vitamin D and magnesium, although they are different elements, there overall benefit to our bodies is co dependent on one another.
The “sunshine vitamin,” or vitamin D, has many health benefits to our overall health and well being. Its benefits go well beyond building stronger bones. Studies have shown that adequate vitamin D levels in the body can promote improvements in mood, immunity, and overall hormonal balance. For our body to properly absorb and utilize all the amazing health benefits that vitamin D provides its benefits are dependent on how much magnesium is present on the vitamin D receptor of the cell.
Magnesium, which is one of the most important minerals in our bodies and is a cofactor in more than three hundred enzyme systems that regulate many biochemical reactions in the body. These include protein absorption, muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. One of magnesium’s important roles is to activate vitamin D production in the cell to be effectively absorbed and utilized in our bodies. In a sense, magnesium is the telephone antenna that vitamin d attaches to on our cells to effectively communicate and fulfill its beneficial responsibilities in our bodies and mind. Without proper amounts of magnesium our ability to absorb and utilize vitamin D is compromised.
Conversely, for the mineral magnesium to be productive to our health, adequate amounts of vitamin D must be present in our cells as well. They are dependent on one another and are like “two peas in a pod.” Deficiencies in either nutrient has been associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and muscle tension. I strongly recommend taking both together to ensure that you are maximizing the absorption and effects of both.
Taking high doses of either nutrient alone without its partner, not only is ineffective, but it is also a waste of money. Your body will just pee out the excess.
So, ensure that you are pairing both vitamin d and magnesium in your daily supplement regime to ensure maximum absorption and the most cost-effective health strategies.