I have mild osteoporosis and was prescribed calcium and vitamin D supplements. I know why I have to take calcium, but why vitamin D?
Osteoporosis is a condition where the strength and density of bone is reduced. This occurs when the rate of removal of calcium in the bone outstrips the rate at which new deposits are laid down.
Normally bone density gradually decreases after the age of 30. However, in some individuals the process can be accelerated following a period of immobilisation or as a result of long-term treatment with steroid drugs.
Osteoporosis can occur in women when oestrogen levels drop as a result of the menopause, or when the ovaries are removed. It may also develop as a result of an excessive production of thyroid or adrenal hormones.
Calcium and vitamin D supplements are used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Calcium is an important nutrient, and is required for healthy bones, heart, muscles and nerve function. Most of the calcium in the body is stored in the bones. Vitamin D is needed by the body to absorb calcium. It helps regulate both the amount of calcium in the blood and the levels deposited in the bones.
Is it true that you can get vitamin D from sunlight?
Yes it is. When exposed to ultra-violet B (UVB) rays in sunlight, the skin produces vitamin D, which the body stores for later use. However, the amount of vitamin D produced by the body in this way will be influenced by the strength of the sun, the length of exposure, your skin pigmentation and the season. Vitamin D is also found in foods such as egg yokes, butter and oily fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel.
If I ate more of these types of foods, could I stop taking the vitamin D supplement?
Those with osteoporosis require a higher level of vitamin D (800 IU daily) than is recommended for the average person.
With an egg containing approximately 35 IU and a 100g portion of oily fish providing up to 350 IU of vitamin D, you can see that it would be quite difficult to get 800 IU a day from food alone.
Vitamin D is an important element in the treatment of osteoporosis, and you should not discontinue your treatment unless you have discussed it with your prescribing doctor.
