Calcium is a mineral that is important to the body for many reasons, the main being the formation of bone. Bone mass is constantly changing through a process called remodeling. In this process the body breaks down old bone and creates new.
Without adequate intake and absorption of calcium, bone mass may decrease and lead to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is often referred to as "the silent thief" because it gives almost no outward symptoms. In children this risk is very serious, as calcium loss can lead to stunted growth. Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is necessary for calcium to be used by the body. People with Inflammatory Bowel Disease are also at risk for a deficiency in vitamin D.
The body can not make its own calcium, so it must be taken in through foods. If it doesn't have enough calcium, the body will break down its own bone in order to obtain this important mineral.
One reason for the loss of calcium is the medications that are often used to treat IBD symptoms. Prednisone, a corticosteriod drug, acts to break down bone and prevent new bone from being formed. It can also inhibit the body's ability to absorb calcium. By both preventing the creation of bone mass and causing the body to lose calcium, long-term use of prednisone can lead to bone loss. Tests such as bone densitometry can be used to determine if there is any bone loss.
An inability to absorb enough calcium is a second reason why people with IBD may experience calcium deficiency. Malabsorption occurs mainly in Crohn's disease where the inflammation is located in the small intestine. Calcium is absorbed in the small intestine, so people with ulcerative colitis that manifests in the large intestine may have better calcium absorption.
We all know the commercials - Got Milk? Sure, it's funny, but lactose intolerance is no laughing matter for those with IBD. Many people with IBD also discover that they can not tolerate milk due to either lactose intolerance or food sensitivity. Check with your doctor to determine if a calcium supplement is necessary, and how much you should take daily.
Non-dairy foods that contain calcium include:
- Kale
- Collard greens
- Bok choy
- Broccoli
- Oranges
- Calcium-fortified foods (check labels)
- Salmon
- Shrimp
- Molasses
