Vitamin D and calcium are important nutrients that play a crucial role in keeping the bones healthy. The Endocrine Society and the Institute of Medicine recommends certain consumption levels based on age and health.
The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation maintains that it is equally important to continue getting enough calcium and vitamin D to prevent further bone loss if you are prescribed a medication to prevent bone loss or fractures. If you are not able to get enough vitamin D and calcium from diet alone, doctors often prescribe supplements to increase your intake.
However it is important to highlight that too much calcium or vitamin D can lead to heart and kidney problems.
How much calcium do you need?
Adults need the following daily amounts of calcium:
- Men aged 19-70 years old: 1,000 milligrams (mg)
- Men aged 71 years and older: 1,200 mg
- Women aged 19-50 years old: 1,000 mg
- Women aged 51 years and older: 1,200 mg
- Pregnant people: 1,000 mg
- Breastfeeding people: 1,000 mg
How much vitamin D do you need?
Adults need the following daily amounts of vitamin D:
- Adults aged 19-70 years old: 15 micrograms (mcg)
- Adults aged 71 years and older: 20 mcg
- Pregnant people: 15 mcg
- Breastfeeding people: 15 mcg
How to take vitamin D and calcium supplements?
The National Institute of Health maintains that the safest amount of calcium from your diet and supplements is 2,500 milligrams daily. The upper limit for vitamin D is 100 micrograms daily from your diet and supplements. Consult a doctor to determine if you need to take both calcium and vitamin D together.
What are the side-effects of calcium and vitamin D supplements?
There is a possibility that you may experience side effects like:
- Appetite and weight loss
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Dehydration or excessive thirst and urination
- Low levels of phosphate
- Muscle weakness or poor muscle tone
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain
- Poor kidney function
- Tiredness