How To Get The Most Out of Calcium?
- Last updated: July 17, 2023
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Calcium is an important nutrient that every living organism, including humans, needs. It is the most abundant mineral in the body and essential for bone health. What should you know about calcium supplementation and calcium-rich dietary supplements?
Why is Calcium Important?
About 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones, while the remaining 1% is found in the blood, muscles, and other tissues.
Calcium is involved in
- normal blood clotting processes,
- normal energy metabolism processes, and
- normal nerve function.
Calcium also contributes to
- normal muscle function and
- normal digestive enzyme function.
Calcium plays a role in cell division and cell specialization, and it is necessary for maintaining normal bone and tooth structure.
To fulfill these important daily functions, the body works to maintain a steady level of calcium in the blood and tissues. If the blood calcium level drops too low, the parathyroid hormone (PTH) signals the bones to release calcium into the bloodstream. This hormone can also activate vitamin D to improve calcium absorption in the intestines.
Sources of Calcium
The following foods are good sources of calcium:
- Yogurt
- Milk
- Sardines and salmon
- Cheese
- Tofu
- Green leafy vegetables like broccoli and kale;
- Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, sesame seeds, and chia seeds
- Legumes and whole grains.
Daily Recommended Calcium Intake
Adults are recommended to consume 1000 mg of calcium daily, while women over 50 years of age and during pregnancy and lactation should aim for 1200 mg per day.
When Can Calcium Deficiency Occur?
Doctors may recommend calcium supplements in the following cases:
- Vegan diet
- Lactose intolerance
- Excessive consumption of protein or sodium, which can cause the body to lose more calcium
- Osteoporosis
- Long-term corticosteroid treatment
- Intestinal or digestive system disorders that impair calcium absorption
Calcium Overdose
It is important to consume the right amount of minerals or nutrients for proper health, as an excessive intake of calcium can have negative side effects.
Symptoms of calcium overdose may include:
- Kidney problems
- Calcification of soft tissues and blood vessels
- Formation of kidney stones
- Constipation
Calcium Tablets and Capsules
Dietary supplements can help with calcium supplementation, and the most common active ingredients are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.
There are also preparations that contain organic calcium. It is not recommended to consume more than 500 milligrams for better absorption. To properly utilize calcium, the body also needs sufficient amounts of vitamin D and magnesium.
Which is the best calcium tablet? The one that contains an appropriate amount of calcium, is made from chemical-free ingredients, and has been tested for its active ingredient content in accredited laboratories, ensuring its safety for use.
Dietary supplements do not substitute for a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.
What is Calcium Carbonate Used For?
Calcium carbonate is one of the salts of calcium (CaCO3), which is used as a phosphate buffer in hemodialysis, as an antacid for temporary relief of stomach acidity, digestive disorders, and heartburn, and it is commonly found in calcium-rich dietary supplements.
The USA medical K2+D3 capsule contains K2 and D3 vitamins along with calcium in the form of calcium carbonate, and it also includes BioPerine to aid in the absorption of the active ingredients.
If you would like to try other premium-quality products, browse our dietary supplements in our webshop!
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products/services are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.