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Many nutrients play a role in bone health. The main two are Calcium and Vitamin D.
Calcium is essentially a building block of bones, and it helps maintain bone strength throughout your child?s lifetime. But calcium can only reach its full bone-building potential if the child?s body has enough vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D work together to protect your child?s bones. Calcium helps build and maintain bones, while vitamin D helps the body effectively absorb calcium. 1
On the other hand, many other nutrients contribute to bone health and growth. They include: 2
- Phosphorus. A major mineral in the body's bone crystal.
- Magnesium. Primarily found in bone crystals, magnesium improves bone strength.
- Vitamin K. Necessary for bone formation and mineralization.
- Vitamin C. Collagen is the main protein in bone, and Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis.
- Vitamin A. Vitamin A is necessary for cells to differentiate normally and for normal skeletal growth. In contrast, too much vitamin A can cause bone loss and increase the risk of hip fracture.
Dr. Souad Andraos
MD, Pediatrics
