Chronic stress, immune imbalance, and thyroid dysfunction are deeply interconnected. This forms a stress–immune–thyroid triad where each system influences the others, affecting energy, mood, and resilience. Research shows that targeted support—including adaptogens, micronutrients can help restore communication across this network. Rather than offering quick fixes, this systems-based approach addresses underlying feedback loops, combining clinical insight, patient engagement, and supportive lifestyle practices to rebuild physiological balance and improve well-being over time.
Laura Lewis, MS
Supplement manufacturers often pair magnesium and calcium together in nutritional supplements. That is because these two nutrients work together , and they are also both essential and commonly lacking in the typical modern diet, so taking a calcium and magnesium supplement can fill two nutritional gaps with one capsule.*
It has been estimated that nearly half of the adults in the US are consuming less than the recommended amount of magnesium in their daily diet. [1] Proper calcium balance is a result of several factors including dietary choices and vitamin D status. In the US, those at higher risk of calcium insufficiency include older/elderly adults, teenagers, vegans, minorities, and those who are overweight. [3]
Calcium does play a central role in bone health, but has so many other important functions in the body.* It also plays essential roles in muscle, nerve, and heart health, while magnesium plays an important role in in supporting mood and sleep quality.*
Why take Magnesium with Calcium?
Magnesium is essential for the absorption of calcium, the formation of bone, and impacts the activity of the parathyroid hormone (a regulator of calcium homeostasis).* [4] Because we store 60% of the body’s magnesium in bone, when serum levels are low, we pull magnesium out of bone storage when we need it for other biological functions (much like calcium). When magnesium levels are adequate, it helps keep dissolved calcium available in the blood for distribution throughout the body, supporting healthy bone structure.* Additionally, it stops excess calcium from being deposited unevenly in the internal organs.* [5]
Magnesium also stimulates a hormone called calcitonin. Calcitonin helps to preserve bone structure by drawing calcium from the blood back into bones in support of normal bone density and proper calcium balance in other tissues.* [5]
Can Magnesium help with sleep?
Aside from its musculoskeletal benefits, magnesium also supports restful sleep.*. Insufficient magnesium may be a factor in occasional sleeplessness. The mechanism of magnesium’s effects on sleep is related to its role as a regulator of the parasympathetic nervous system.* This is the system responsible for promoting calm and relaxation. [7] It also helps to regulate melatonin [8] and GABA, the neurotransmitter responsible for quieting the nervous system. *[9]
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. This includes protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and blood glucose and blood pressure regulation.* It helps to maintain the regularity of the heartbeat and supports a healthy cardiovascular system.* [10]
Maintaining adequate magnesium levels in the body is not only essential for the healthy circulation and distribution of calcium, but also for the activation of vitamin D so that it can facilitate calcium absorption.* [5]
Vitamin D is yet another vitamin that can play a role in a healthy, balanced mood during the day, and restful sleep at night.* [11]
Disclaimer:
The information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult your physician or healthcare practitioner if you have specific questions before instituting any changes in your daily lifestyle including changes in diet, exercise, and supplement use.
Laura Lewis is a clinical researcher and science communicator with a Master of Science degree and a background in nutrition science and integrative health. She brings a decade of experience translating complex clinical data into accessible insights for healthcare practitioners and patients alike.
Laura has contributed to educational programming and strategic content development across the integrative and functional medicine space. Her strengths lie in evidence synthesis, practitioner engagement, and crafting communications that bridge the gap between scientific rigor and real-world application. At ARG, Laura supports clinical content development and educational initiatives that elevate practitioner confidence and product credibility.