Category: Mineral health

According to a 2025 study in *Studies in Multidisciplinary Medical Research*, vitamin D supplementation was shown to significantly increase serum copper concentrations in non-athletes. While this may sound alarming, the interaction is nuanced, and understanding it requires looking at the bigger picture of mineral metabolism to see if vitamin D interferes with copper.

According to the National Institutes of Health, while magnesium and zinc are often synergistic, abnormally high doses of zinc (around 142 mg per day or more) can negatively impact magnesium absorption. Many people worry about the opposite effect and question, "Can magnesium deplete zinc?" This common misconception stems from a misunderstanding of how these two vital minerals interact within the body.

According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that up to 2 billion people worldwide may be affected by zinc deficiency. In functional medicine, addressing this common issue means looking beyond simple dietary intake to uncover the root causes of the widespread and diverse symptoms of zinc deficiency.

Approximately 99% of the body's calcium and 80% of its phosphorus are found in bones and teeth, providing the structural foundation for the skeletal system. This symbiotic relationship is central to the function of calcium and phosphorus in our body, which extends into a vast network of cellular and physiological processes.

Iodide, the ionic form of the element iodine, is essential for human health, with approximately 88% of households worldwide using iodized salt, a key source. This critical mineral is utilized by the body to produce vital thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and support proper development.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has set a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of 11 mg of manganese per day for adults, clarifying that exceeding this amount can lead to adverse health effects. This guideline helps ensure that individuals get the benefits of this essential trace mineral without the risks of overconsumption.

According to the National Institutes of Health, deficiencies in essential minerals like magnesium and zinc can increase the risk of chronic diseases. So, does magnesium absorb better with zinc? The answer is nuanced, as these minerals can be both synergistic and competitive depending on the dosage.

Scientific studies show that high doses of one particular trace mineral can significantly decrease copper absorption in the small intestine. This mineral, zinc, is a well-known antagonist to copper, with excessive intake leading to copper deficiency over time.

While the human body contains only small amounts of copper, it is an essential trace mineral vital for numerous bodily functions. A common question is whether supplementation is required, but evidence shows that most people can meet their needs through diet alone. So, is it good to take copper supplements?

An estimated 50% of people worldwide have insufficient vitamin D levels, and studies suggest many also have inadequate magnesium intake. This overlap in deficiencies raises a critical question for many supplement users: do you need to take magnesium if you're taking vitamin D?