Nih Standard Doses For Calcium And Vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are essential nutrients that our body needs to maintain strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle health and overall well-being. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has set standard doses for calcium and vitamin D for different age groups and health conditions. In this article, we will discuss the NIH standard doses for calcium and vitamin D in detail.
What is Calcium?
Calcium is a mineral that is vital for strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle health and blood clotting. Our body needs calcium to stay healthy and function properly. The recommended daily intake of calcium varies depending on age and sex. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for calcium:
Age 0-6 months: 200 mg/day
Age 7-12 months: 260 mg/day
Age 1-3 years: 700 mg/day
Age 4-8 years: 1,000 mg/day
Age 9-18 years: 1,300 mg/day
Age 19-50 years: 1,000 mg/day
Age 51-70 years (men): 1,000 mg/day
Age 51-70 years (women): 1,200 mg/day
Age 71 years and above: 1,200 mg/day
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a nutrient that helps our body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones and teeth. It also has other health benefits such as reducing the risk of certain diseases. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age and sex. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for vitamin D:
Age 0-12 months: 400-1,000 IU/day
Age 1-70 years: 600-800 IU/day
Age 70 years and above: 800-1,000 IU/day
NIH Standard Doses for Calcium and Vitamin D in Health Conditions
There are certain health conditions that require higher doses of calcium and vitamin D. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for calcium and vitamin D in these conditions:
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle. It is more common in women than men, especially after menopause. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for calcium and vitamin D in osteoporosis:
Age 50 years and above: 1,200 mg/day of calcium and 800-1,000 IU/day of vitamin D
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy and breastfeeding require extra nutrients to support the growth and development of the baby. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for calcium and vitamin D in pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Pregnancy: 1,000 mg/day of calcium and 600 IU/day of vitamin D
Breastfeeding: 1,000 mg/day of calcium and 600-800 IU/day of vitamin D
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause pain and discomfort. The NIH recommends the following standard doses for calcium and vitamin D in kidney stones:
Calcium Oxalate Stones: 1,000-1,200 mg/day of calcium and 200-400 IU/day of vitamin D
Calcium Phosphate Stones: 1,000 mg/day of calcium and 200-400 IU/day of vitamin D
Conclusion
Calcium and vitamin D are essential nutrients that our body needs to stay healthy and function properly. The NIH has set standard doses for calcium and vitamin D for different age groups and health conditions. It is important to meet the recommended daily intake of calcium and vitamin D to maintain strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle health and overall well-being.