Calcium deficiency is a key concern in children with IBD, since it could lead to a stunting or retardation of growth. To prevent corticosteroid-induced calcium deficiency and adverse effects on bone, patients need to increase their calcium intake. Increased consumption of dairy products, however, could be a problem if you are lactose intolerant. Commercially available lactase enzyme supplements may help you digest milk products. If you cannot tolerate these foods, non-prescription calcium supplements, such as calcium carbonate, are recommended.
Tums also are a good source of calcium.
Vitamin D supplements may be prescribed for persons at high risk for developing bone problems. Multi-vitamins with added calcium generally do not contain enough to serve as the only daily calcium substitute. Other Medications Other, less commonly used drugs can cause nutritional problems. For example, methotrexate is associated with decreases in folic acid absorption, and cyclosporine can aggravate a magnesium deficiency. Consult your doctor about your diet if you are taking these drugs.