Calcium supplements are a common dietary supplement that many people take to support their bone health. Calcium is an essential mineral that is necessary for the health of bones and teeth. This mineral is found in many foods, including dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and nuts. However, some people may not get enough calcium from their diet alone. In this article, we will explore the benefits of calcium supplements for bone health, the different types of calcium supplements available, and how to choose the right supplement for you.
Why does the body need calcium?
Calcium is a mineral that is essential for the health of bones and teeth. It is also important for appropriate functioning of muscles, nerves, and the heart. Calcium plays a role in blood clotting and helps to regulate blood pressure. The body needs calcium to perform many functions, and if there is not enough calcium in the body, it will take calcium from the bones to support these functions. This can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. Calcium benefits for the body are numerous and essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Calcium health benefits for the body
Calcium has many health benefits for the body, including the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Calcium is also important for the proper functioning of muscles, nerves, and the heart. It plays a role in the regulation of blood pressure and helps to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle.
Calcium also helps to prevent colon cancer and may reduce the risk of other types of cancer. It is important for the growth and development of children and adolescents and can also help to reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Calcium deficiency and the importance of supplements
Calcium deficiency can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. This is especially true for postmenopausal women, who are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. Calcium deficiency can also cause muscle cramps, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet.
While it is important to get enough calcium from your diet, some people may not get enough calcium from food alone. This is where supplements can be helpful. Calcium supplements can help to ensure that you are getting enough calcium to support your bone health.
Benefits of calcium supplements for bone health
Calcium supplements can help to improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. They can also help to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Calcium supplements may also help to reduce the risk of other types of bone diseases, such as rickets and osteomalacia.
Calcium supplements can be especially beneficial for postmenopausal women, who are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. These supplements can help to maintain bone density, which can help to reduce the risk of fractures. Calcium health benefits for the body are most evident in maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Types of calcium supplements available
Among the various types of commonly available calcium supplements available in the market like calcium citrate, calcium carbonate and calcium gluconate are very common. Calcium carbonate is the most common type of calcium supplement and is often found in antacids but absorbability of calcium from this tablet often not so encouraging. Calcium citrate is comparatively easily absorbed form of calcium but may not be a better choice always for people who have difficulty absorbing calcium. In such cases a mixture of all water-soluble calcium salts works better. A mixture of all water-soluble calcium salts as Totally Calcium, is a unique product.
How to choose the right calcium supplement
When choosing a calcium supplement, it is important to consider the type of calcium, the dosage, and any additional nutrients that the supplement may contain. It is also important to choose a supplement that is easy to absorb under full or empty conditions of stomach or before or after eating a meal.
All water soluble and absorbable mixture of FDA complied calcium compounds often more easily absorbed form of calcium supplements and may be a better choice for people who have difficulty absorbing calcium or even swallowing a large tablet. Supplements that contain vitamin D can also help to improve the absorption of calcium but not always.
It is also important to choose a supplement that is easy to take. Some supplements may need to be taken with food, while others can be taken on an empty stomach. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Recommended daily intake of calcium (from food and supplements)
The recommended daily intake of calcium varies to some extent based on age and gender. Daily intake of calcium according to NIH is listed below but it includes calcium from all the sources including food and supplements, if taken any.
- Children 1-3 years old: 700 mg
- Children 4-8 years old: 1,000 mg
- Children 9-18 years old: 1,300 mg
- Adults 19-50 years old: 1,000 mg
- Women 51-70 years old: 1,200 mg
- Men 51-70 years old: 1,000 mg
- Adults 71 years old and older: 1,200 mg
Side effects and precautions when taking calcium supplements
Calcium supplements are generally safe for most people when taken as directed. However, some people may experience side effects, such as constipation, bloating, and gas. These side effects can often be relieved by drinking plenty of water and increasing fiber intake. Usually, supplements contain calcium carbonate creates gas when you mixed with acid in stomach and makes very uncomfortable situation.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication. Calcium supplements can interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics and blood pressure medications.
Conclusion – The importance of calcium supplements for a lifetime of healthy bones
Calcium supplements can be an important part of a healthy diet, especially for people who do not get enough calcium from their diet alone. Calcium is essential for the health of bones and teeth, and it plays an important role in many other functions of the body.
When choosing a calcium supplement, it is important to consider the type of calcium, the dosage, and any additional nutrients that the supplement may contain. It is also important to follow the instructions on the label and to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Use the best absorbing calcium supplement, Totally Calcium, to ensure that you are getting enough calcium to support your bone health. With the right supplement and a healthy diet, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy bones.