Calcium - Helping Prevent Osteoporosis

Calcium is a common mineral found in the earth, and is needed for the structure and function of every living cell. It is a crucial element in the formation of your teeth and bones. If you dont get enough, you risk developing osteoporosis, a condition in which your bones become thin and susceptible to fracture. Other benefits of calcium are that it helps maintain a regular heartbeat and assists in the transmission of nerve impulses. It is also essential for blood clotting; it lowers cholesterol levels; it helps prevent cardiovascular disease; it is needed for muscle growth and muscle contractions; and prevents muscle cramps.

It is estimated that several million people in North America suffer from a calcium deficiency, the symptoms of which might include: brittle nails, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insomnia, muscle cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, rickets, tooth decay, and menstrual and premenstrual problems. There are many food sources of this mineral green vegetables and dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, to name a few but you cannot be sure of meeting your daily requirements unless you take a supplement.

Growing adolescents require 1300 milligrams of calcium daily; people up to age 50 need 1000 milligrams; and age 50 and over 1200 milligrams daily. You should buy supplements to take in several small doses throughout the day, preferably with meals, and in its most soluble form, which means the citrate rather than the carbonate. Magnesium is required for calciums absorption and is often combined with it.