Recommended Dose Of Calcium And Vitamin D For Osteopenia
What is Osteopenia?
Osteopenia is a condition where the bone mineral density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It is a precursor to osteoporosis which is a condition where the bone mineral density is significantly low and may lead to fractures. Osteopenia is a warning sign that the body is losing more bone mass than it can replace which may lead to osteoporosis if not treated in time.
Importance of Calcium and Vitamin D for Bone Health
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential nutrients required for bone health. Calcium is a mineral that provides strength and stability to the bones while Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium from the gut. Calcium and Vitamin D work together to maintain the bone mineral density and prevent the onset of osteoporosis.
Sources of Calcium and Vitamin D
Good sources of calcium include dairy products, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and supplements.
Recommended Daily Dose of Calcium
The recommended daily dose of calcium for adults is 1000-1200 mg/day. Women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 70 require a higher dose of 1200-1500 mg/day. Calcium supplements can be taken to meet the daily requirement if the diet is lacking in calcium-rich foods. However, it is best to obtain calcium from food sources as they are better absorbed by the body.
Recommended Daily Dose of Vitamin D
The recommended daily dose of Vitamin D for adults is 600-800 IU/day. However, people with osteopenia or osteoporosis may require a higher dose of 800-2000 IU/day. Vitamin D supplements can be taken to meet the daily requirement if the diet is lacking in Vitamin D-rich foods or if there is inadequate exposure to sunlight.
Combination Therapy
A combination of calcium and Vitamin D supplements is often recommended for people with osteopenia or osteoporosis as they work together to maintain bone health. The combination therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of fractures and improve bone mineral density.
Conclusion
Osteopenia is a warning sign that the body is losing more bone mass than it can replace. Adequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health and preventing the onset of osteoporosis. The recommended daily dose of calcium for adults is 1000-1200 mg/day while that of Vitamin D is 600-800 IU/day. People with osteopenia or osteoporosis may require a higher dose of calcium and Vitamin D. A combination of calcium and Vitamin D supplements is often recommended for people with osteopenia or osteoporosis as they work together to maintain bone health.