Mineral calcium is associated with many important functions of our body including development of bones and teeth, normalization of blood clotting and growth of muscles. It is also needed by the nervous system and the immune system to fight against many degenerative diseases.

The most important function of the mineral calcium is probably the prevention of osteoporosis or bone disease in old age. Women are more likely to be affected by this illness in their 60’s or 70’s and the major cause is calcium deficiency. People who are not very fond of milk and other dairy products should have their serum calcium performed right away to discover whether they are calcium deficient or not.

The Mineral calcium is found in beans, nuts, green vegetables and fortified cereals in addition to milk. Dairy products made from low-fat milk are also good sources of calcium. However, if you are calcium deficient your doctor may prescribe some calcium-rich tablets to overcome this deficiency along with suggesting a proper diet and exercising program.

Mineral calcium obtained from supplements is more effective when it is taken with vitamin D, iron, magnesium and vitamin C. Because of this reason, fortified orange juice is prepared by adding calcium citrate to provide an adequate amount of calcium to the body. Calcium carbonate (coral calcium) is also an important compound used in the preparation of good-quality calcium-rich supplements.

Calcium carbonate provides up to 40% elementary calcium to be absorbed by the blood. Normal calcium carbonate has a low absorption rate, and therefore these tablets should be consumed right after meals. However, coral calcium has been found to be more effective in terms of absorption rate and is better than normal calcium in providing long-term health benefits.

The Mineral calcium can also be obtained from liquid calcium supplements. These products are ideal to be used by children and elderly people. They are made by blending calcium carbonate or calcium citrate with other compounds containing magnesium or potassium. They are easy to consume and easy to digest. Benefits of calcium-rich supplements include stronger bones and teeth, prevention of many diseases including depression and PMS, and controlling high cholesterol levels to assist in weight loss.

To obtain maximum benefits from nutritional supplements use them with a good, balanced diet and regular exercise. Have your serum calcium performed after every 6 months to ensure optimum level of calcium in the body for long-term health and prevention of degenerative diseases.

By: John Gibb

Calcium is one nutrient that is sometimes overlooked. However, it is one of the most important nutrients your body needs. Calcium plays an important part in body functions and some development. Knowing how much calcium you need daily and where to get it from can ensure that you will lead a healthier life and live longer.

What does Calcium do for us! Well, calcium does many things for your body. Everyone knows calcium is great for the bones. It also plays a role in keeping your muscles and nerves working properly. It also helps blood clot and keeps your heart functioning properly. Lacking calcium in your diet can greatly affect your health for years to come.

When your body does not get enough calcium it begins to take calcium from the bones. When this occurs, the bones become deficient and problems can start such as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that mostly affects older people. Osteoporosis is a disease where the bones get thin and brittle. However calcium is important at any age. In children calcium is important to help with bone growth. Pregnant women calcium intake is also very important. Along with other nutrients the baby needs calcium to grow. So, more calcium intake is important during pregnancy.

Here are some basic guidelines for calcium. Intake 1,300mg a day for children age 1-10, 1,600mg a day for age 11-25. Pregnant and breast feeding mothers should get 1,500mg a day. Don’t worry about taking too much calcium. Intakes of up to 2,500mg are still a safe level. Most of the Excess calcium is easily removed form the body.

We suggest the follow as a good guideline for calcium foods. Try to get at least three to four servings a day of dairy products. Most greens are good sources of calcium. Make better choices when buying foods with added calcium can help you to make sure you are getting enough calcium.

Calcium is often overlooked as an important nutrient. It is up to us to make sure we are getting enough. Remember it is quite easy to add calcium foods into our diet. Soft bones are most often contributed, because of a lack of calcium intake.

By: Troy Francis