Calcium is an essential mineral for your overall health. It is particularly important to Crohn's disease sufferers because this condition increases the risk of bone loss. If you consider taking this supplement for your condition, you should first talk to your doctor.
Why is Calcium Important
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body. While 99 percent of calcium is part or your bones and teeth, the remaining 1 percent plays an essential role in muscle and nerve functions as well as in the production of various hormones. Long term deficiency of this nutrient leads to bone loss and an increased risk of fractures.
Calcium Deficiency, Bone Loss & Crohn's Disease
Scientists believe that there are four main reasons why 30 to 60 percent of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have low bone density, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. First, therapy with corticosteroids increases the risk of low bone density because these drugs reduce the amount of calcium absorbed from food and increase elimination of the mineral in urine. Also, during flare-ups, individuals with Crohn's disease experience an increased level of cytockines, which are cells involved in inflammation and have been also linked with a higher risk of developing bone loss. In addition, vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium. People with Crohn's disease are at higher risk to develop a vitamin D deficiency, which leads to a reduced ability to absorb calcium. Finally, Crohn's patients who are female, older and have a low body mass index have higher chances to develop bone loss and should discuss supplementation with calcium with their doctor .
Sources & Dosage
Dietary sources of calcium include diary products, fish, meat and green leafy vegetables. Some foods like cereals and yogurt are fortified with calcium. Calcium is also available as an over-the-counter supplement. The recommended daily allowance for calcium for healthy adults is between 1,000 and 1,200 mg. Individuals with Crohn's disease may require higher doses, especially during the treatment with corticosteroids. It is important to not overdose, though, since excess calcium may cause constipation, kidney stones and vascular problems.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care practitioner to determine the optimal dosage of calcium that may prevent bone loss and other health problems associated with Crohn's disease. Keep in mind that calcium supplements do not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for Crohn's disease.
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