| Calcium | |||||
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Calcium is a mineral that is the most abundant of any of the minerals in the body. Calcium is found mostly in the bones and teeth (about 99%), with a small amount circulating in the blood and in the cells.
Calcium needs vitamin A and vitamin D as well as phosphorus, magnesium and boron to work even more effectively and get absorbed even better.
- Calcium builds bone tissue and helps bones become strong
- Slows the rate at which bone is destroyed by retaining more calcium in the bone
- Helps the muscles contract properly
- Helps the heart to beat properly
- Plays a role in the effective function of nervous tissue
- Assists in the clotting of blood when any tissue is severed and bleeding
Prior to menopause, the hormone eostrogen protects bones, making them strong and healthy in most women. Once menopause sets in and eostrogen levels go down, calcium levels in the bones can become depleted, bones can become brittle and women can be at higher risk for osteoporosis.
It is never too late for women to get more calcium in their diet, to help protect against the risk of osteoporosis.
references
- Osiecki, Henry, The Nutrient Bible 2002, BioConcepts Publishing
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
- Volpe SL, Taper LJ, Meacham S. The relationship between boron and magnesium status and bone mineral density in the human: a review. Magnes Res. 1993 Sep;6(3):291-6
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
- Dieticians Association of Australia
- Nutrient Reference Values (Australia)
- Osteoporosis Australia
