Vitamin D And Calcium Supplementation To Prevent Fractures In Adults
As people age, their bones become weaker and more prone to fractures. One way to combat this is through the use of vitamin D and calcium supplements. These two nutrients work together to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures in adults. In this article, we'll discuss the importance of vitamin D and calcium supplementation in preventing fractures in adults.
Why Vitamin D Is Important
Vitamin D is important for a number of reasons, but one of the most important is its role in bone health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become brittle and weak, making them more prone to fractures.
Most people can get enough vitamin D from sunlight, but many people don't get enough sun exposure to meet their needs. In addition, as people age, their bodies become less efficient at producing vitamin D from sunlight. This is why vitamin D supplementation is often recommended for older adults.
Why Calcium Is Important
Calcium is another important nutrient for bone health. Our bones are constantly being remodeled, with old bone being broken down and new bone being formed. Calcium is essential for this process, as it provides the building blocks for new bone formation.
Like vitamin D, most people can get enough calcium from their diet. However, many people don't get enough calcium, especially as they age. This is why calcium supplementation is often recommended for older adults.
How Vitamin D And Calcium Work Together
Vitamin D and calcium work together to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. Without enough vitamin D, the body can't absorb enough calcium, making it difficult to build and maintain strong bones. By supplementing with both vitamin D and calcium, adults can ensure that their bones are getting the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy.
Studies On Vitamin D And Calcium Supplementation
There have been a number of studies on the effectiveness of vitamin D and calcium supplementation in preventing fractures in adults. One study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that supplementation with vitamin D and calcium reduced the risk of hip fractures in older adults by 30%. Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that supplementation with vitamin D and calcium reduced the risk of fractures in older adults by 12%.
How To Supplement With Vitamin D And Calcium
If you're considering supplementing with vitamin D and calcium, it's important to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can help you determine how much of each nutrient you need, as well as recommend a high-quality supplement. In addition, your doctor may recommend other lifestyle changes, such as weight-bearing exercise, to help strengthen your bones.
Conclusion
Vitamin D and calcium supplementation can be an effective way to prevent fractures in adults. By ensuring that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to build and maintain strong bones, you can reduce your risk of fractures and maintain your mobility and independence as you age. Talk to your doctor today to see if vitamin D and calcium supplementation is right for you.
