इस पृष्ठ को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करें।
Calcium and Your Health
Calcium is a crucial mineral for your body, playing a vital role in various aspects of your health. Calcium constitutes over 1 percent of the total composition in the human body.
Calcium is not just for strong bones and teeth; it is essential for muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Your body relies on a steady supply of calcium to maintain these critical functions.
Consequences of Low Calcium Diets
Diets low in calcium can lead to several health issues. Poor bone health, muscle cramps, and dental problems are common consequences. Additionally, a deficiency may affect blood clotting, nerve function, and cardiovascular health.
Dietary Factors Contributing to Low Calcium
Several diets may unintentionally result in low calcium intake. Vegan or dairy-free diets, certain weight loss diets, and highly processed diets are examples.
Conditions Leading to Low Blood Calcium
Medical conditions such as hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, and malabsorption disorders can contribute to hypocalcemia. Surgical removal of parathyroid glands, magnesium deficiency, certain medications, and alkalosis are additional factors.
Hypocalcemia Symptoms
HYPOcalcemia means low blood calcium.
Symptoms of low blood calcium include muscle cramps, twitching, numbness, tingling, and, in severe cases, seizures. If you experience these symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial.
Hypercalcemia Symptoms
HYPERcalcemia means high levels of blood calcium.
Some of the symptoms of hypercalcemia:
- Feeling really thirsty and needing to pee a lot.
- Feeling very tired and weak.
- Having tummy troubles like feeling sick, throwing up, tummy ache, or not being able to poo.
- Getting kidney stones can cause severe pain in your side, blood in your pee, or infections.
- Bones and muscles might hurt, feel weak, or even break.
- Feeling confused, having trouble remembering things, or concentrating.
- Heart might beat strangely, causing chest pain or feeling your heart racing.
Remember, hypercalcemia can be serious, so if you notice any of these signs, it's important to see a doctor.
Individuals with hypercalcemia should avoid calcium supplements, as additional calcium could exacerbate the condition.
Who else should avoid calcium supplements?
- People with a history of kidney stones: High doses of calcium supplements may increase the risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.
- Those taking certain medications: Certain medications can interact with calcium supplements, including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and medications used to treat osteoporosis. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplement regularly, especially if taking other medications.
Who should use calcium supplements cautiously?
- Individuals with certain medical conditions: People with conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, certain cancers, or kidney problems should consult with their healthcare provider before taking calcium supplements.
- People with gastrointestinal conditions: Some gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, may impair calcium absorption. In such cases, it's important to consult a healthcare provider before taking calcium supplements to determine the appropriate dosage and form.
Anyone considering calcium supplementation should discuss it with their healthcare provider to determine if it's appropriate for their individual health needs and circumstances.
Who Should Ask For Calcium Supplements?
Many people can safely take calcium supplements, especially those who have difficulty meeting their calcium needs through diet alone or who have certain health conditions that increase their risk of calcium deficiency.
Following are some groups of people who may benefit from calcium supplements:
- Postmenopausal women: Women who have gone through menopause often experience bone loss and may benefit from calcium supplements to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Elderly individuals: Older adults may have difficulty absorbing calcium from their diet or may not consume enough calcium-rich foods, putting them at risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Calcium supplements can help maintain bone health in this population.
- People with lactose intolerance or milk allergy: Calcium supplements can provide an alternative source of calcium for individuals who cannot consume dairy products.
- Individuals with certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, hypoparathyroidism, and malabsorption syndromes, increase the risk of calcium deficiency and may require supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Pregnant and breastfeeding women have increased calcium needs to support the growth and development of the fetus and infant. Calcium supplements may be recommended to ensure adequate intake during these periods.
However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting calcium supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications that may interact with calcium. Additionally, calcium supplements should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to bone health, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications as needed.
Calcium Orotate as a Supplement
Calcium orotate is often touted as a highly absorbable form of calcium due to its molecular structure, which includes orotic acid. Some believe that this form may enhance the bioavailability of calcium in the body, potentially making it an effective supplement for those seeking to address calcium deficiencies. However, individual responses to different forms of calcium can vary!
Conclusion
Ensuring an adequate intake of calcium through a balanced diet and, if necessary, supplementation is vital for overall health. If you have concerns about your calcium levels, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and appropriate management.
Nutrients and physical work-outs are important not only for the physical health but also for the mental health. Things that are good for our heart/body are also good for our brain!
Please refrain from regarding the information provided here as authoritative or final. It's advisable to cross-reference this content with other sources for accuracy.
First draft of this document was uploaded On: 31 Dec 2023.
First revision of this document was uploaded On: 27 April 2024.
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