Mayo Clinic Talks
Osteoporosis, Fragility & Bone Health Edition | Calcium & Vitamin D “When Enough is Enough”
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Adequate calcium intake is essential for building strong bones and maintaining normal cellular functioning; relying solely on normal blood calcium levels does not indicate sufficient intake, as the body can draw from bone reserves to maintain normal levels.
- Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium from the gut and helps deposit it into bones, contributing to bone strength; those in colder climates with limited sun exposure may require vitamin D supplementation.
Deep dives
The Importance of Calcium for Bone Health
Calcium plays a crucial role in bone health, as 99% of the calcium in our body is stored in our bones. It is necessary for building strong bones and ensuring normal cellular functioning throughout the body. If calcium intake is inadequate, the body will extract calcium from the bone storage depot, which can weaken the bones. It is important to note that relying solely on normal blood calcium levels does not indicate sufficient calcium intake, as the body can draw from bone reserves to maintain normal levels. Daily recommended calcium intake varies depending on age and gender, ranging from 700 milligrams in young children to 1,200 milligrams in postmenopausal women. Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, are primary dietary sources of calcium.
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