Calcium is a mineral that is used for many functions in the body. Some of these include cellular communication and work, proper functioning of muscle and nerves and additional strength to bones. Vitamin D helps regulate calcium by affecting its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and absorption or deposition in bone, for instance. Decreased levels of either vitamin D or calcium has been linked to an increased risk of adverse health conditions.
Rickets
Rickets is a disease that occurs if children do not get enough vitamin D. Without enough of this vitamin, calcium is not deposited in the bone. According to "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment" by Drs. Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine Papadakis, this results in weak muscles, short stature or delayed growth, an abnormally curved spinal column, bowed legs and pain in the bones, particularly the pelvis, legs and spine.
Osteomalacia, Osteoporosis and Complications
As noted by "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" by Anthony Fauci, M.D., osteomalacia, osteoporosis and the complications resulting from these diseases occur in adults who do not receive enough calcium or vitamin D. Both of these conditions describe a loss of bone mass, with osteoporosis being a more severe loss of bone than osteomalacia. Persons with these conditions are prone to further complications such as fractures.
Nerve and Muscle Problems
The low calcium caused by a vitamin D deficiency can also cause nerve and muscle problems. Nerves use calcium to communicate, and muscles use calcium to contract. Low calcium causes pins and needles sensations, particularly around the mouth, hands and feet. The muscles have a tendency to contract overly forcefully and for long periods of time and can even go into a sustained contraction called tetany. Abnormal rhythms can also develop in the heart because it is a muscle as well and requires normal levels of calcium.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine Papadakis; 49th Ed 2010
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony Fauci et al; 17th Ed 2009
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