Calcium is the mineral most required by the body, and is found in combination with other compounds. Ninety-nine percent of the calcium in the body is found in bones and teeth and it gives them strength. The rest of the calcium is found in the nerves, muscles and blood and it regulates the chief physiological functions of the body.
Functions of Calcium
Calcium performs many vital functions in the body, the most important being the development of teeth and bones. It is essential for normal activity of the heart and muscles, clotting of blood, transmission of messages from nervous tissues and healthy functioning of the nerves. Calcium is closely related to the mother’s health during pregnancy, and proper growth of the fetus. It stimulates the digestive enzymes and hastens healing.
Sources of Calcium
Rich sources of calcium are milk and dairy products, finger millet, sesame seeds, bran cereal, wholemeal and pulses. Vegetable sources include carrots, turnip greens, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, parsley and radish. Other sources are fenugreek, mustard seeds, dried coconut, almonds, walnuts, peanuts and dry fig. Citrus fruits, guavas and some fish also contain calcium.
Causes of Calcium Deficiency
Calcium deficiency occurs when it is not absorbed by the body. Absorption and retention of calcium depend on a number of factors apart from the actual intake. There should be adequate intake of vitamins B12, C and D and phosphorus. The intestines and stomach need to be healthy to enable calcium to be absorbed. Complex high fiber carbohydrates also help. Moreover, enough water intake is required to prevent calcium deficiency.
Excess vitamins A and D, acids, salt, sugar, alcohol and caffeine hinder absorption. Lack of fat in the diet hinders absorption of vitamin D, which in turn leads to calcium deficiency. Moreover, factors linked to lifestyle, such as stress and smoking, prevent absorption and lead to a deficiency. The amount of calcium in the body declines with old age, and excess calcium is lost from the body due to hyperparathyroidism and kidney problems.
Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency
Lack of calcium brings about changes in the muscles and bones, leading to fragile bones, backache, tooth decay and muscle cramps. The patient suffers from tiredness, lethargy, nervousness, mental problems and emotional upsets, insomnia and palpitations. One becomes sensitive to the cold, though there is sweating around the head. Children with mothers suffering from calcium deficiency manifest symptoms like intestinal and respiratory infections and lowered immunity. Women in general seem to suffer from more problems due to calcium deficiency.
Therapeutic Uses of Calcium
Calcium is beneficial in certain conditions, such as arthritic pains, irritability, cramps, lack of hormones during menopause and tetany, when the muscles and nerves become excitable. This occurs when the bones are decalcified due to poor calcium absorption. However, it is also important to exercise regularly to strengthen the bones. Finally, calcium helps to relax nerves and muscles in those suffering from insomnia.
Calcium is required for vital bodily functions and to prevent calcification; it is also used for therapeutic purposes. Certain factors influence the absorption of calcium, while deficiency manifests in physical and mental problems. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the amount and balance of calcium in the blood and skeleton.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only; it should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his/her health should contact a licensed medical professional.
Sources:
Goyal, G.C, Vitamins for natural healing: Diamond books, 2005.
Bakhru, H.K, Vitamins that heal-- Natural Immunity for better Health: Orient paperbacks, 1990.
Pediatrics.about.com, Calcium Rich Foods/Child Nutrition Basics, (accessed November 15, 2010)
Fatfreekitchen.com, Calcium Rich Foods, Calcium Deficiency, Foods High in Calcium, (accessed November 15, 2010)
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