Vitamin D Vs Calcium: There are two nutrients people tend to often think of-and rightly so-when one talks about making strong bones and overall wellness: vitamin D and calcium. But which is more important? How does one see to taking these two in combination to get maximum benefit? Understanding their roles could help you make wiser health decisions.
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from the foods you eat. Without enough vitamin D, even calcium supplements will not work well for you. This vitamin also influences immune function, muscle strength, and the regulation of mood. Natural sources are sunlight, fatty fishes, egg yolks, and fortified foods.
Calcium is the main mineral in teeth and bones. It helps keep bones dense and prevents them from breaking. It also enables heart and muscle function. Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and almonds are all dietary sources of calcium. As one ages, the loss of calcium becomes more pronounced often after age 30; therefore, supplementation becomes crucial.
They are meant to act in conjunction with one another rather than superior to one another. Thus, a deficiency in one would decrease the effectiveness of the other. If the body has insufficient Vitamin D, calcium cannot be provided even through national supplements well enough for bone health.
Timing matters: Take calcium at meals for optimum absorption; Vitamin D at a fat-containing meal.
Avoid overload: Do not take calcium and iron supplements together; they compete for absorption.
Consider split doses: Small amounts improve the body’s absorption of calcium (500-600 mg at a time).
Get tested: Always consult a doctor to check for deficiencies before starting supplements.
Also Read: Improve Bone Strength Naturally with These 5 Foods
Taking vitamin D doesn’t involve discarding calcium but the exact opposite. Hence, proper intake of both, in the right form and right amount, keeps bones and body healthy.