Importance of Calcium
09/10/2012 Leave a comment
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| Photo Credit: Epukas PD |
Calcium is one of the most important minerals in your diet. Calcium helps form strong, healthy bones and teeth. You also need calcium for healthy blood and tissues. You need vitamin D in your diet to help your body to absorb calcium. A lack of calcium can result in weak bones or a condition known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a serious bone disease that results in part from inadequate calcium and vitamin D. People with osteoporosis are at risk for fractures because their bones are weak.
In addition to keeping your teeth and bones strong, calcium also helps stimulate digestive enzymes for better absorption of nutrients from food. Calcium is important in voluntary muscle contractions, such as moving your arms and legs. Your nervous system depends on adequate calcium to function normally. Calcium also helps to regulate your heart beat.
Food that are high in calcium include leafy, green vegetables, cabbage, beans and artichokes. Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream are also loaded with calcium. Carrots, broccoli, nuts and salmon are also rich in this important nutrient.
It is best to get your daily dietary requirement of calcium in the food you eat, but sometimes a supplement may be necessary. Calcium citrate and calcium malate are two types of calcium supplements that help support your bone health if you are not getting enough calcium in your diet. Always consult a doctor before taking any over-the-counter dietary supplements.
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