Vitamin D versus Calcium | |
Vitamin D refers to a group of fat-soluble secosteroids (Vitamin D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5). The two main forms of Vitamin D are Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. | Calcium is a chemical element, a reactive alkaline earth metal with silver and in a very pure state – orange color. In the nature Calcium exists as a mixture of stable isotopes (40Ca, 42Ca, 43Ca, 44Ca, 46Ca, and 48Ca). |
Vitamin D regulates the concentration of Magnesium, Calcium, and Phosphate; promotes the healthy bone system; has a neuromuscular, immune and anti-inflammatory function; influences cell growth. | Calcium plays an important role in signal transduction pathways, neurons’ neurotransmitter release, muscle contraction, fertilization; it is a cofactor for many enzymes. Outside the cells it is important for the proper bone formation and for the maintenance of the potential difference across the cell membranes. Calcium is vital to the health of the circulatory, muscular, and digestive systems; it is compulsory for the building of the bone system; supports function and synthesis of the blood cells. |
Vitamin D can be synthesized in the body and supplemented. | Calcium needs to be supplemented. |
Vitamin D2 occurs naturally in mushrooms exposed to UV light. Vitamin D3 occurs in lichen, fish liver oils, some fish species (salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines), egg yolk, beef liver. | Calcium occurs in grains, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, sugar, protein-rich foods, oil, and fats. |
The recommended daily intake of Calcium is 800-1300 mg, depending on the age. | The recommended daily intake of Vitamin D is from 5 to 15 µg/day, depending on the age. |