Calcium and vitamin D

In order to lead a healthy life it is very important to eat the right kind of food. This is because; through food we can fulfill the nutrient requirement of our body. Calcium and vitamin D is one such vital mineral. They work in symbiosis and help in developing bones and teeth.

Calcium

In our body 99% of calcium is present in the bones and teeth and around 1 % is present in our blood, muscles and soft tissues. Calcium plays an important role in the formation of bones and teeth. It also prevents the decaying of bones and thus makes them hard and strong. It helps in lubricating the muscles and facilitates normal clotting of blood. Calcium also assists in the passage of messages through the nerves from the brain to the other parts and vice versa. It helps in regulating the blood pressure. Calcium reduces the rich of cancer and other vital diseases. Milk, fortified rice and fortified margarine are rich in calcium. Fishes such as salmon, tuna etc. may also be rich sources of calcium.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin. Vitamin D is synthesized through the skin. Hence, adequate exposure to the early sun can be helpful in increasing the level of vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D helps in the metabolism of calcium and also assists absorption of vital minerals into the bone. Thus, vitamin D helps in building strong bones and teeth. Egg and egg yolk, fishes such as sardine, salmon, etc., fish oil and cod liver oil are rich sources of vitamin D.

Lack of calcium and vitamin D in the diet

A poor level or deficiency of calcium and vitamin D may lead to several disorders. Deficiency of these minerals may lead to rickets, also known as osteoporosis. This disease mostly occurs in adults especially in women. It results into loss of bone density. The bones thus become thin, porous, and brittle and break down. In rare cases, the bones in the spinal chord break down and can no longer support the back. As a result of this the lungs and other organs cannot function properly.

Recommended Reading

1. Foods high in Vitamin D
Vitamin D Vitamin D is called Cholecalciferol or the Sunshine Vitamin. It is synthesized in the body when the precursor...
2. 25 hydroxy Vitamin D:
25 hydroxy Vitamin D is commonly known as Vitamin D. It is a fat soluble vitamin that is found in...
3. Vitamin D side effects
Briefly about vitamin D Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and mostly found in eggs and fishes; it is highly...
4. What does vitamin D do?
Functions of vitamin D: One of the most important and major biological functions of vitamin D is to maintain appropriate...
5. Vitamin D production
Vitamin D is a form of steroid hormone. It plays a very important role in the mineralization of the bone...