Many of us have heard about the importance of getting enough vitamin C and calcium.
But what exactly are these nutrients, and are they the same? Despite their similar-sounding names, vitamin C and calcium are two distinct nutrients with unique benefits and functions in the body.
While it's easy to assume that they're interchangeable, understanding the differences between these two nutrients is crucial for optimising your health and wellness. This article irons out these differences in clear terms!
Are vitamin C and calcium the same thing?
Vitamin C and calcium are commonly confused. While they might have a lot of similarities, they are not the same. Thus, play different roles in the general body's well-being.
Vitamin C vs calcium
Here are some of the primary differences between vitamin C and calcium;
Sources
One of the main differences between vitamin C and calcium is their source - the kinds of food that are rich in them. While vitamin C is found mainly in fruits and vegetables, calcium is common in dairy products like milk, cheese, and yoghurt.
Supplements also come in handy, but you should ensure these supplements are from companies like Chewwies that go the extra mile to provide the best for you.
Method of absorption
Another vital difference between vitamin C and calcium is how they are absorbed and processed by the body. Vitamin C is absorbed in the small intestine and taken to other body parts. Its excess goes away via the urine.
Calcium is absorbed in the small intestine but transported only to bones and teeth. Its excess calcium goes out via the stool.
Varied recommended intake
While vitamin C and calcium are essential for good health, they are needed in just the right amounts. The recommended daily amount (RDA) for vitamin C ranges from 75-90 mg.
Calcium ranges from 1000 to 1200 mg. Both depend on age and other factors. One should be sure to meet this RDA, but also not take too much. Consuming too much of either nutrient may lead to unpleasant effects!
Signs and symptoms of vitamin C and calcium deficiency
The symptoms of vitamin C deficiency manifest after 8 to 12 weeks of the vitamin shortage. Stress and an unhealthy lifestyle could cause this. Some of them are;
- Irritability
- Easily bruising due to blood vessel weakness
- Bleeding gums
- Poor wound healing
- Dry skin
- Abnormal finger and toenails
Calcium is released from the bones when not present in diets. Thus, calcium deficiency is rarely associated with physical symptoms. But, Tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips are common.
What happens if you consume an excessive amount of vitamin C or calcium?
If you take too much vitamin C, you may feel stomach discomfort, diarrhoea, nausea, or indigestion. On the other hand, excess calcium can cause more severe cases like kidney difficulties, palpitations, shortness of breath, weakness, and digestive issues like bowel changes or stomach discomfort.
Which Is More Beneficial: Vitamin C or Calcium?
For you to remain healthy, you need both vitamin C as much as you need calcium. No one is necessarily better, as both play various roles!
Benefits of Vitamin C
- Essential for growth and development.
- Connective tissue health.
- Immune roles.
- Mood.
- Aids absorption of other nutrients. This is why vitamin C is amongst the top vitamins for kids!
Benefits of Calcium
- Blood coagulation.
- Muscular contraction.
- Nerve transmission.
- Blood pressure maintenance.
- Proper growth in the foetus.
A common ground between them is bone health. Here calcium is required for bone integrity and strength. Vitamin C makes collagen for the bone, keeping it flexible.
Without either, bones would be brittle, weak, and prone to shatter. Hence, more than picking one or the other, ensure to ingest the perfect amounts of both to support the proper functioning of the body.
Final thoughts
Vitamin C and calcium are two different nutrients! Both play vital roles in maintaining good health. Yes, they have some similarities, especially in tooth and bone health they are different.
Each plays a vital role in the body. Thus maintaining healthy amounts of both is critical. The good news is a healthy diet and supplements could do the trick! As usual, consult your doctor to confirm that you are obtaining and absorbing these nutrients for optimal health.