Vitamin D + Magnesium + (Chocolate...)

Vitamin D's many benefits have been well documented and publicized.  They include healthy bones, blood sugar regulation, improved immune functioning, and overall disease prevention.  Vitamin D is produced by the body in response to sun exposure but food and supplements are important sources.

Sometimes single nutrients work much better when coupled with another.  This was the finding in a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read the study here:  https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article-abstract/108/6/1249/5239886?redirectedFrom=fulltext

The researchers were interested in finding out why vitamin D levels did not increase in some people even after taking adequate supplementation.  They found that magnesium, an important mineral involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, significantly enhanced the absorption and use of vitamin D.

What are some foods that are rich in both magnesium and/or vitamin D?   The list includes some of my all-time favorites: dark leafy greens, beans, whole grains, dark chocolate, fatty fish such as salmon, nuts, and avocados.  Not a bad combination of foods.

Wait, did I see say chocolate!?  Yes!  There are 41 mg of magnesium in dark chocolate.  Good news for chocolate lovers and Valentine’s Day treats.

It’s always a good idea to get your blood levels of vitamin D checked before embarking on a course of supplementation.  Lab values can determine whether a particular supplement is necessary and/or the appropriate amount of supplementation to be taken.

I invite you to schedule your next wellness visit with me or inquire about a complimentary 10-minute consultation over the phone or in person.  Please speak to our friendly office staff at (206) 267-2100 o book an appointment.