Activates vitamin D
Recent research has shown that magnesium plays a role in activating vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for bone health, and magnesium is necessary for the absorption of calcium. A deficiency in either vitamin D or magnesium can lead to osteoporosis. (5)
Magnesium activates vitamin D by converting it to its active form, calcitriol. Calcitriol helps the body absorb calcium from the diet and maintain healthy bones. A lack of magnesium can therefore lead to a deficiency in vitamin D.
Magnesium also plays a role in immune function and has anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that a lack of magnesium may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.