Calcium

The Distribution and Function of Calcium

Calcium is the most plentiful mineral in the human body and is essential for the smooth undergoing of several important bodily functions. Calcium is used in the nervous system to send sensory messages and the muscular system for contraction, as well as being instrumental in the secretion of hormones and enzymes and the process of widening and narrowing of blood vessels; these actions, however account for only 1% of the body’s total calcium supply, with the other 99% stored in the bones and teeth.

Calcium and Teeth

Calcium is vital for the development of healthy teeth, right from birth. Children who have a high calcium intake frequently have a stronger set of adult teeth and are less likely to suffer from tooth decay in their adult life. Once the teeth have developed, calcium is essential to protect them from the formation of cavities and strengthen them further.

Calcium and Bones

In addition to making teeth stronger, calcium is a vital component of the processes of production and resorption of bone mass. A lack of calcium can result in weak and brittle nails, teeth and bones. Severe loss of bone mass can lead to the development of osteoporosis, a disease, particularly prominent in women over the age of 50, which is characterised by fragile bones, meaning sufferers are prone to breaks and fractures as well as conditions such as curvature of the spine.

Sources of Calcium

There are many available sources of calcium; while the most obvious and common source is milk, calcium is also abundant in other dairy products, such as cheese and yoghurts. Meat, vegetables and fruits as well as dairy substitute products such as soya and tofu are also rich in calcium and there are supplements available in pharmacies and health stores for those who are deficient in calcium.

Recommended Intake of Calcium

It is recommended that children should drink at least 1 pint of whole milk per day until the age of 18; young children up to the age of 5 should aim for up to 500 mg of calcium per day, while children between the ages of 9 and 18 should consume around 1300mg of calcium. Post-menopausal women, vegetarians and people who suffer from lactose intolerance are more likely to experience calcium deficiency; those with a family history of osteoporosis might also consider taking calcium supplements.

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