Description
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and more than 99% of the body’s calcium is found in our bones and teeth. That brings us to the major function of calcium: to build and maintain strong, healthy bones and teeth. In addition, calcium plays an important role in many enzymatic reactions in the body and is necessary for the contraction of muscles, the release of neurotransmitters, the regulation of heart beat, and the clotting of blood. Over time, a calcium deficiency may ultimately lead to osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become thin, weak and susceptible to fracture. The symptoms of osteoporosis may not be noticed until most of the bone loss has already occurred. Adequate calcium intake in conjunction with exercise and a healthful diet throughout life serve as the key ingredients for preventing the development of osteoporosis. While osteoporosis is more common among women, it affects middle-aged and older persons, especially those with a family history of fragile bones in later years. Calcium supplementation is a significant factor in helping to prevent osteoporosis. For the body to effectively absorb calcium, sufficient amounts of vitamin D must be available. Aside from other functions in the body, its primary role is to stimulate the absorption of calcium, which is necessary for bone development. The main sources of vitamin D are food and sunlight, but recent research has found that most Americans do not met their body’s requirement for this important nutrient. Those who do not consume enough vitamin D or who do not get any sunlight (particularly the elderly in nursing homes) may be at a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, in which case vitamin D supplementation is recommended. An important thing to remember is that vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and should be taken in recommended amounts.