Dr. Shubham Gupta
Orthopedics Resident, Department Of Orthopedics, SGRRIM&HS, DDN (UK)
Our body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones. And along with vitamin D,
they have benefits beyond bone health: perhaps protecting against cancer, diabetes
and high blood pressure.
Due to calcium deficiency, children may not reach their full potential adult height and
adults may have low bone mass which itself is a major risk factor for osteoporosis.
Our body doesn’t produce calcium so we must get it through our diet and other sources
such as supplements. And to absorb calcium, our body needs sufficient vitamin D.
Even if you eat a healthy, balanced diet, you may find it difficult to get enough calcium if
you:
- Follow a vegan diet
- Have lactose intolerance and limit dairy products
- Consume large amounts of protein or sodium which can cause your body to excrete
more calcium - Are receiving long-term treatment with corticosteroids
- Have certain bowel or digestive diseases that decrease your ability to absorb
calcium, such as inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease
In these situations, calcium supplements may help your body meet its daily requirement