Does juvenile idiopathic arthritis require calcium supplementation?
Disease description:
My child has been diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The child often experiences joint pain and swelling, and joint movement is also limited. I am very concerned about my child's growth and development. I would like to know whether children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis need calcium supplementation?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a common chronic joint inflammation in childhood, and its exact cause is not yet fully understood, possibly related to factors such as genetic predisposition and immune system abnormalities. The main symptoms include joint swelling and pain, morning stiffness, and limited mobility. In severe cases, it can affect a child's growth, development, and quality of life.
Whether calcium supplementation is needed mainly depends on the specific condition of the disease and the child's individual nutritional status. If the child's activity is limited due to arthritis, leading to reduced outdoor activity and insufficient sun exposure, this may affect vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and utilization, so calcium supplementation may be necessary in such cases.
If arthritis does not significantly affect the child's normal activities and the child maintains a balanced diet that provides sufficient calcium intake from food sources, additional calcium supplementation is generally unnecessary.
