Calcium and vitamin D, specifically D3 or cholecalciferol, are essential for maintaining the strength and structural integrity of bones. While other nutrients also play an integral in bone development and strength, it is a deficiency of these two nutrients that have the most marked effect on integrity of the bone. Depending on the extent of the deficiency, it may lead to osteoporosis, osteomalacia (adults) or rickets (children). Both calcium and vitamin D are derived from the diet although the latter is also formed in the skin through sunlight exposure. The bones also serve as a reservoir for calcium. Deficiencies may be linked to dietary factors or underlying diseases that hamper the digestion, absorption or proper utilization of these calcium and vitamin D. Calcium Calcium is one of the main components for calcification of the bones. In conjunction with phosphorus it is deposited as hydroxyapatite crystals as bone mineral. Without it, bone will remain uncalcified as softer and more flexible bone tissue (osseus tissue). The levels of calcium in the blood are regulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH) secreted by the parathyroid glands and calcitonin secreted by the C-cells of the thyroid gland. Parathyroid hormone responds to low levels of calcium in … Continue reading Calcium and Vitamin D in Foods and Supplements for Bone Health