Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose:My child was not given timely calcium and vitamin D supplementation last winter, and in the summer, we noticed rib flaring. The pediatric hospital doctor prescribed pediatric four-dimensional granules, but he has not fully recovered yet (still has). Could you please advise how I should supplement calcium and vitamin D for my child this winter? Thank you!! (We have Nutrilite Calcium-Magnesium Tablets at home)
First follow-up question: Thank you for your reply. Can I take fish oil with calcium tablets? (The doctor said he is still lacking vitamin A). If yes, how should I take them correctly? Thank you!!
Doctor's answer:
Hello: It is okay to give children calcium-magnesium supplements, and at the same time, dietary attention should be paid to the following:· Before eating green vegetables, it is best to blanch them first to remove oxalic acid, and then stir-fry them with tofu to avoid affecting the absorption of calcium in itself and other foods;
· Avoid adding calcium supplements to foods like milk, rice porridge, or thin congee, as phytic acid in the food can hinder calcium absorption, leading to a decrease in calcium absorption in the body;
· When cooking fish or ribs, add some vinegar and simmer slowly to fully extract the calcium from the fish bones and ribs. Calcium is most easily absorbed when combined with protein;
· Rice and white flour contain a lot of phytic acid, which affects calcium absorption. Before preparing, it is best to ferment the flour or soak the rice in warm water;
· Soybeans have high phytic acid content, and the germination method can be used to remove it, thereby promoting calcium absorption and utilization;
· Stew tofu with fish, as the vitamin D in the fish promotes the absorption of calcium from the tofu;
· Eat less high-salt, high-fat, and high-protein foods, such as hamburgers, fried chicken, potato chips, shrimp-flavored snacks, and broad bean crisps; also limit high-phosphorus foods like soda and cola. The former increases calcium excretion, while the latter hinders calcium absorption;
· Calcium supplements are best taken between meals, as this allows the body to better utilize calcium. Taking them with meals can affect calcium absorption rates.