Calcium Supplements are Recommended for Stronger Bones and Teeth

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and an indispensable element intended for maintaining overall body physical condition and health. Body requirement of calcium is not merely to keep your bones and teeth strong but to ensure appropriate functioning of muscles and nerves.

Daily recommended intakes:

The daily recommended intake of calcium is 1000mg for both male and female of age 19-55.However the recommended dose increases in adolescents of age 14-18 to 1300mg in both males and females Similarly over the age of 55, the calcium intake has to be increased to 1200mg.Pregnant and lactating mothers have a further need of extra calcium to the growing baby’s need so the recommended dose is 1300mg.

Sources of Calcium :

Some natural sources of calcium includes almonds, milk, broccoli, cereal, rice, juice, tofu
cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, caviar, so-yabean, cauliflower, walnuts , peanuts and dried figs.

Symptoms of Deficiency:

Frequent fractures
Muscle contractions
Convulsive seizures
Muscle cramps

Adequate calcium intake is imperative for building and maintaining healthy bones, along with preventing osteopenia and osteoporosis. Both of these conditions are instigate by a failure to build adequate bone mass or by bone loss that occurs as we age. Most people do not get requisite amount of calcium from diet alone, and this is where a calcium supplement can be important to consumers of all ages.

The two main forms of calcium in supplements are Calcium carbonate and Calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate is both inexpensive and conveniently available in the market as compared to calcium citrate. Both the carbonate and citrate forms of calcium are well absorbed, but those with reduced levels of stomach acid can absorb calcium citrate more easily.

For the better absorption of calcium it is recommended to take calcium carbonate with some food, whereas assimilation of calcium citrate is equally effectual when the supplement is taken with or without food. Other calcium forms in supplements include gluconate, lactate, and phosphate.

Avoid taking supplements if:

•    Allergies to calcium or antacids
•    High blood-calcium levels
•    Kidney disease
•    Chronic constipation, colitis, diarrhea
•    Heart problems or high blood pressure for which you are taking a calcium channel blocker