Calcium

Definition

Calcium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including bone health, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth and can also influence health outcomes related to cardiovascular function and weight management.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, with about 99% stored in bones and teeth.
2. The recommended daily intake of calcium varies by age and gender; for example, adolescents need around 1,300 mg per day for optimal growth.
3. A deficiency in calcium can lead to serious health issues, such as osteoporosis in older adults and impaired growth in children.
4. Calcium from food sources is better absorbed than from supplements, making dietary intake preferable.
5. High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium excretion through urine, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrition.

Review Questions

• How does calcium contribute to overall health and what are some consequences of inadequate intake?
  • Calcium is essential for numerous bodily functions including building and maintaining strong bones, muscle contractions, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Insufficient calcium intake can lead to serious health problems like osteoporosis, particularly in older adults where bone density diminishes. Additionally, inadequate levels during childhood can impair growth and development.
• Discuss the relationship between calcium, vitamin D, and bone health, highlighting how they work together to support skeletal structure.
  • Calcium and vitamin D have a synergistic relationship when it comes to maintaining bone health. Calcium provides the necessary building blocks for bones, while vitamin D enhances the absorption of calcium from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. Without sufficient vitamin D, even a high-calcium diet may not effectively support bone density, leading to increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
• Evaluate the impact of dietary sources of calcium on adolescent health compared to supplementation during this critical growth period.
  • Dietary sources of calcium are generally more effective than supplements for adolescents due to better absorption rates and the presence of other beneficial nutrients in whole foods. Foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified options contribute not only calcium but also other vital nutrients that support overall growth and development. Relying on supplements may not provide the same comprehensive benefits and could lead to imbalances or excessive intake if not monitored carefully.

Related terms

Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, often due to insufficient calcium intake over time.

Dairy Products: Foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt that are rich sources of calcium and are important for bone health.

Vitamin D: A fat-soluble vitamin that enhances calcium absorption in the gut, playing a key role in maintaining healthy bones.