You Should Be Taking This Vitamin For Stronger Bones Over 50, According To Experts

Vitamin D for bones

You've probably already heard all about how calcium is great for your bones. So on first thought, many people would assume that the best thing you can do to keep your bones strong as you age is simply to consume more calcium—maybe even take a calcium supplement. However, Galloway points out that there's another crucial nutrient your body needs enough of in order to reap the benefits of that calcium: Vitamin D.

If you're not eating enough vitamin D-rich foods into your daily diet, taking a supplement is one fantastic idea. "If your body is lacking vitamin D, you are unable to absorb the calcium received through food," Galloway tells us.

Of course, it's also a great idea to take a calcium supplement in conjunction with Vitamin D. However, just as with anything else you're putting into your body, it's always important to be aware of the risks at hand. If it doesn't contain or isn't taken alongside K12, a calcium supplement could take a toll on your heart—so be careful about which supplements you choose, and speak to a doctor if you're concerned about the potential downsides.

Bonus tip: Don't forget protein!

Galloway offers one more word of advice, as well: she stresses the importance of protein for bone health. "Maintaining a diet that is adequate in protein will help support bone health and an overall healthy lifestyle. When choosing protein sources, focus on picking foods that also contain calcium like dairy, tofu, salmon and protein shakes," she concludes. Got it!

And remember: take Vitamin D to get the most out of that calcium.