Calcium and Vitamin D: Worth Knowing About the Interaction

Both the mineral calcium and vitamin D are important for the stability of your bones. In this health tip, we explain how the two substances interact in the body.

Calcium and vitamin D – interaction in the body

Calcium ensures stable bones and healthy teeth.

• The mineral is not only needed for bone formation, but also in the cardiovascular system.
• Your body stores calcium in bones. If the calcium level in the blood falls, calcium is released from the bones.
• The more accurate designation of vitamin D is vitamin D3. This is a fat-soluble vitamin.
• The special feature of vitamin D3 is that it is the only vitamin that the body can produce itself. This happens in the skin. Adequate sunlight is a prerequisite for the formation of vitamin D3.
• Vitamin D has a major impact on bone calcium levels. More calcium is absorbed through the intestine when there is sufficient vitamin D in the body.
• Vitamin D also promotes the absorption of calcium in the bones. Not only calcium deficiency but also a lack of vitamin D are risk factors for osteoporosis.

Minerals and vitamin intake in the diet

You can cover your calcium requirements very well with your diet.

• There are some foods that contain calcium. The best-known representatives are milk and almost all dairy products.
• Mineral water containing calcium is also a good source.
• Green vegetables such as kale or spinach are rich in calcium.
• Getting enough vitamin D from food is more difficult because your body uses UVB rays to produce this vitamin itself.
• Especially in the dark season, it can be easier to get a shortage. A good source of vitamin D is cod liver oil. However, not everyone can cope with the special taste.
• Fatty fish such as herring or salmon also have some vitamin D on the plate and taste much better.