Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation

It plays an important role in:^1,3

• Bone and tooth formation and maintenance
• Nerve-to-nerve communication
• Normal muscle function, energy metabolism, digestive function and blood clotting
• Cell division and specialization

Analysis shows that average daily calcium intake in South Africa is low, averaging 400 – 500 mg per day.⁴

The National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) recommends a daily calcium intake of > 1000 mg per day for adults over the age of 25.⁵

Vitamin D

Vitamin D assists in the absorption and regulation of calcium blood levels in the body, which is why it is important for maintaining bone-calcium levels.¹ 

Without enough vitamin D, less than 15% of the calcium found in food or supplements is absorbed.¹

Most vitamin D₃ is obtained via skin synthesis when the skin is exposed to sunlight and it can also be found in some foods.^1,2,6 Factors like a prolonged winter, blocking the skin from UV sunlight rays or spending too much time indoors can lower vitamin D levels.⁶

The need for calcium increases during growth periods, while the ability to absorb it decreases with age and menopause.^1,2 Calcium is also lost on a daily basis, mainly through excretion but also via other body tissues and fluids such as sweat.²

Signs of mild calcium deficiency may include nerve sensitivity, muscle twitching, thin and breakable nails, irritability, palpitations and difficulty sleeping.⁷ 

Vitamin D deficiency is often not obvious, but some signs and symptoms may include mood changes, bone and joint pain, loss of bone density, muscle weakness or cramps and fatigue.⁸

Combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet, calcium and vitamin D may help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.^3,9