Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption and in bone health.
The relationship between calcium and vitamin D is similar to that of a locked door and a key. Vitamin D is the key that unlocks and opens the door, allowing calcium to leave the intestine and enter the bloodstream. Your body needs vitamin D to use calcium to build healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis. The minimum daily recommendation for vitamin D is 400 International Units per day. Vitamin D supplements are usually not necessary because vitamin D is available from foods such as fortified milk, fish, and egg yolks, as well as exposure to sunlight on your skin.