Health benefits of Calcium
December 3rd 2007 09:30
One of the most abundant minerals in the human body is calcium and it is vital for keeping our bones and teeth in tip-top condition. In fact, 99% of the total body calcium are stored in our bones and teeth!
The remainder of this calcium is found in our blood and muscles where it is required for muscle contraction, blood vessel contraction/expansion, the secretion of hormones and enzymes, and sending messages through the nervous system.
While calcium alone is not enough to build/maintain healthy bones (vitamins C, D, and K are also essential), it is essential for osteoporosis prevention - a condition that involves the reduction of bone mineral density which leads to increased risk of fractures. This is particularly evident in older aged people.
Calcium is found in a variety of dietary sources and they are:
- Cheese
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Soy milk
- Beans (soybeans)
- Tofu
- Nuts and Seeds
- Chinese cabbage
- Bok Choy
- Sea cucumber
Despite this high number of calcium dietary sources, seven out of ten Australian women, and a significant number of Australian men, still aren't getting enough calcium. The good news is that a large variety of over the counter calcium supplements can be found at your local chemist.
For example, Blackmores Bio Calcium contains the following active ingredients: Calcium phosphate (570 mg), Calcium hydrogen phosphate (equiv. to total calcium 350mg - 600 mg) and Vitamin D3 (100 IU).
Generally speaking, the recommended dosage for adults are 2-3 tablets a day with meals (or as professionally prescribed), and 1 tablet a day (or as professionally prescribed) for children aged between 6-12.
For best results, always seek the advice of your healthcare professional.
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