Page updated 06/04/18 12:47:36 p.m.
The importance of calcium in the body
Most people think that the sole function of calcium is to keep our bones strong and healthy. However, although it may be true that 99% of the body's calcium supply is stored in the bones and teeth, 1% is needed to support the proper function of the heart, nerves, muscles and hormones.
What are the benefits of calcium?
- Helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth.
- Supports the proper function of heart, muscles and nerves.
- When combined with Vitamin D, it also helps protect the body against cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.
Calcium and magnesium
Magnesium and calcium complement each other in helping support the body's absorption of these minerals.
Dietary sources of calcium
The primary source of calcium is milk and other dairy products such as yoghurt, cheese, butter, ice cream and eggs. You can also get calcium from certain fish such as canned sardines with bones, and canned pink salmon with bones.
Certain vegetables are also rich in calcium, for example, kale, broccoli, bok choi or Chinese cabbage, green turnips and other green leafy vegetables.
You can also get it from fortified produce such as: bread, soy drink, ready-to-eat cereals, and orange juice.
Although there are lots of natural sources of calcium, the busy, hurried lives many of us lead may be preventing us from getting our required intake of calcium from our diet alone. This is why taking calcium supplement has become a necessity, especially for certain age groups.
Who benefits most from taking calcium supplements?
- Women of childbearing age.
- Pregnant and lactating women.
- Men age 30 and above.
- Individuals who are active in sports.
- Women of menopausal age.
Page updated 06/04/18 12:47:36 p.m.
