Who is at risk of calcium and vitamin D deficiency?
- Female athletes in sports that focus on lean physique.
- Kids who choose to drink soda, juice and sports beverages instead of milk.
- Kids who are inactive or don’t spend time outside for sun exposure.
- Kids who are lactose intolerant or allergic to milk.
Why should we care about calcium and vitamin D for our athletes?
- Vitamin D promotes absorption of calcium, and we depend on these nutrients for strong bones (adolescence is when we build our bone mass).
- Strong bones help prevent bone injuries.
- Lack of calcium in our diet forces the body to take calcium from bones to keep blood levels normal, which weakens bones.
- Calcium is a key nutrient for muscle contraction, nerve transmission and hormone secretion (all of which are crucial functions for athletes).
What can you do to keep your athlete’s calcium and vitamin D levels healthy?
- Ask for a vitamin D level on your child the next time they get their blood drawn.
- Encourage calcium and vitamin D rich food and fluids 3-4 times per day.
- Ask your provider if they think your child might be a candidate for a calcium and/or vitamin d supplement.
Kid requirements for calcium and vitamin D each day:
Kids 4-8 years |
1,000 mg of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D |
Kids 9-18 years |
1,300 mg of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D |
Food and fluid sources for calcium and vitamin D:
Food Sources |
Serving Size |
Calcium (mg) |
Vitamin D (IU) |
Dairy Products |
Milk - whole, 2%, nonfat |
8oz. |
300 |
100 |
Yogurt, plain or fruit-fortified with vitamin D |
8oz. |
250-450 |
100 |
Other Fortified Beverages and Foods |
Calcium fortified soy or rice milk |
8oz. |
300-350 |
100 |
Calcium fortified orange juice |
8oz. |
300 |
140 |
Fortified cereals |
1 cup |
100-1000 |
Variable |
Other resources
The Office of Dietary Supplements website provides a comprehensive list of foods containing vitamin D and calcium.
To find out more about nutrition tips, read our sports nutrition articles, or schedule an appointment at 720-777-6600. We are happy to consult with parents or referring providers before a patient is seen at Children’s Colorado.