Both calcium and vitamin D are essential for sustaining bone health, and their physiological roles are intertwined. These should be kept in the body at normal levels to ensure excellent bone density, which lowers the risk of fractures in the elderly.
The two nutrients that are most crucial for maintaining bone health throughout life are calcium and vitamin D. In order to keep bones strong and lower the risk of fracture in the elderly, it is important to maintain adequate levels of essential nutrients in the diet. Age-related imbalances in bone development and breakdown result in the condition known as “Osteoporosis” (weak and porous bones). The cornerstone of osteoporosis treatment is enough calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
Bones hold 99 percent of the body’s total calcium content. Green leafy vegetables, milk, yoghurt, cheese, and fortified foods such cereals are dietary sources of calcium. Calcium is found in bones as the hydroxyapatite molecule, which gives bones their strength. In addition, bones serve as a calcium storage and keep blood calcium levels stable, which is necessary for a variety of other processes.
Aging reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium from meals, and when combined with hormonal changes, this weakens bones. In general, elderly adults require 1000–1200 mg of calcium per day in their diets. To meet this requirement, supplements are frequently required.
In general, supplements should be taken with food. Your doctor will recommend supplements in an appropriate dose and may switch to a different kind or brand if necessary to avoid side effects like constipation and upset stomach.
In reality, vitamin D is a hormone. Vitamin D, unlike calcium, can be made in small amounts by the human body. It originates in the skin and needs sunshine to complete. People at risk for vitamin D insufficiency include those with dark complexion, those who are housebound, and those who spend their days at work with minimal exposure to the sun.
800 to 1000 International Units (IU) of vitamin D per day are necessary for elderly adults. The promotion of calcium absorption from meals is one of vitamin D’s most crucial roles. It is also necessary for the proper operation of muscles.
Milk and milk products, soymilk, salmon, and other dietary sources are examples. Age-related reductions in vitamin D synthesis lead to a decrease in the body’s ability to absorb calcium from meals, which can lead to osteoporosis or a weakening of the bones.
Since there aren’t many food sources of vitamin D, supplements are crucial. There are a variety of quantities and formulations of supplements available, either with vitamin D alone or with calcium. You can get advice from your doctor on what to choose.
Both calcium and vitamin D are essential for sustaining bone health, and their physiological roles are intertwined. These should be kept in the body at normal levels to ensure excellent bone density, which lowers the risk of fractures in the elderly.
