What is a potential effect of vitamin D deficiency on bone health?

What is a potential effect of vitamin D deficiency on bone health?

• A. Increased bone strength
• B. Decreased calcium absorption
• C. Improved bone healing
• D. Enhanced bone density

Answer: (B)

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health primarily through its influence on calcium metabolism. When the body is deficient in vitamin D, one of the significant effects is a decrease in the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Calcium is fundamental for bone formation and maintenance; without adequate levels being absorbed, bone density can be compromised over time, leading to conditions such as osteoporosis or osteomalacia. In individuals with vitamin D deficiency, the reduced calcium absorption can result in lower serum calcium levels, prompting the body to draw calcium from bone reserves to maintain necessary physiological functions. This can weaken bones and make them more susceptible to fractures or deformities. Thus, the relationship between vitamin D and calcium absorption underscores why deficiency in this vitamin directly impacts bone health negatively.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health primarily through its influence on calcium metabolism. When the body is deficient in vitamin D, one of the significant effects is a decrease in the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Calcium is fundamental for bone formation and maintenance; without adequate levels being absorbed, bone density can be compromised over time, leading to conditions such as osteoporosis or osteomalacia.

In individuals with vitamin D deficiency, the reduced calcium absorption can result in lower serum calcium levels, prompting the body to draw calcium from bone reserves to maintain necessary physiological functions. This can weaken bones and make them more susceptible to fractures or deformities. Thus, the relationship between vitamin D and calcium absorption underscores why deficiency in this vitamin directly impacts bone health negatively.