no bones about it!

Vegetarian Times, May, 2001

We all know the important role calcium plays in maintaining strong bones, but growing evidence shows that many Americans aren't complementing their calcium intake with vitamin D, which is essential for proper absorption of the mineral. Without vitamin D, even individuals with adequate calcium intake run the risk of a deficiency, leaving the body with about half the calcium necessary for optimal skeletal health. The RDA recommendation for vitamin D is 400 international units per day.

Eggs and dairy foods contain fair amounts of vitamin D, as do most fortified ready-to-eat cereals. But don't discount the best D source: the sun. Fifteen to 20 minutes of exposure (hands and face) two to three times a week is enough to do the trick.