Everyone knows calcium and vitamin D are crucial for strong bones and teeth.
But did you know these nutrients are also essential for heart health, mental well-being and immunity? Unfortunately, many people don’t get enough calcium and vitamin D from their diet alone. Power up your diet with these shocking calcium and vitamin D supplements and give your body the boost it needs.
Why You Need Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are both essential nutrients that work together to keep your bones healthy and strong. Calcium is needed for bone growth and maintenance, while vitamin D helps your body absorb and use calcium effectively.
Without sufficient amounts of these nutrients, your bones may become weak and brittle, increasing your risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
In addition to supporting healthy bones, calcium and vitamin D are also essential for many other functions in the body. Vitamin D is necessary for immune system function, mental health and reducing inflammation.
Calcium also plays a role in muscle function, nerve transmission and blood clotting.
How Much Calcium and Vitamin D Do You Need?
The recommended daily intake of calcium and vitamin D varies by age, gender and other factors. Generally, it is recommended that adults get at least 1,000 mg of calcium and 600-800 IU of vitamin D per day.
However, older adults may need more calcium and vitamin D to account for decreased absorption and increased bone loss.
Shockingly Good Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements
If you find that you aren’t getting enough calcium and vitamin D from your diet, there are plenty of supplements available to help you increase your intake. Here are some of the best options:.
Calcium Citrate
Calcium citrate is a highly absorbable form of calcium that is easy on the stomach. This makes it a great choice for people who have trouble digesting other forms of calcium supplements.
Calcium citrate is available in powder, tablet and capsule form, and can be taken with or without food.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is the most effective form of vitamin D for increasing blood levels. It is produced naturally in the skin when exposed to sunlight, but many people don’t get enough sunlight to produce sufficient amounts.
Vitamin D3 supplements come in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets and liquid drops.
Calcium and Vitamin D Combination Supplements
If you want the benefits of both calcium and vitamin D in one supplement, a combination supplement may be a good choice.
These supplements typically contain calcium citrate and vitamin D3, and are available in a variety of forms including tablets and capsules.
Calcium-Fortified Foods
If you prefer to get your nutrients from food, there are many calcium-fortified foods available. These include orange juice, soy milk, cereal and bread.
Keep in mind that not all fortified foods are created equal, so be sure to check the label to ensure you are getting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
Green Leafy Vegetables
While not technically a supplement, green leafy vegetables are a great natural source of both calcium and vitamin D. Some of the best options include kale, collard greens and bok choy.
These vegetables are also high in other vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any diet.
Conclusion
Calcium and vitamin D are essential nutrients that are important for many functions in the body, including bone health, immune system function and mental well-being.
If you aren’t getting enough of these nutrients from your diet alone, there are plenty of supplements available to help you boost your intake. Whether you prefer calcium citrate, vitamin D3 or a combination supplement, these shocking calcium and vitamin D supplements will help power up your diet and give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.