The Benefits of Calcium
The benefits of calcium and taking calcium supplements include:
1. Strong Healthy Bones
Calcium is essential for bone development and health. It is needed for bone growth for children, maintenance of bones as adults, and preventing bone density as we grow old. In older women, it can lower the risk of fractures.
2. Healthy Strong Teeth
We need calcium to build strong teeth and for good dental health. It supports tooth development in kids. Calcium strengthens the enamel for all ages. Enamel is the thin hard outer layer on each tooth. It protects our teeth from decay, erosion and cavities.
3. Muscle Movement
Our muscles need calcium to support movement and activity. It helps regulate muscle contraction and relaxation. Muscle contractions happen with activity and movement. It is when a muscle tightens, shortens or lengthens. Muscle stimulation causes our bodies to release calcium. This helps the muscle proteins complete the activity.
4. Nervous System Support
Our nervous system controls our bodies. It needs calcium for nerve signals to send messages from our brain to the rest of the body to perform actions.
5. Cardiovascular Heart Health
The cardiovascular system consists of your heart and blood vessels. Calcium plays an important role in our heart and blood vessels functioning properly. It helps the heart muscle beat, and also supports healthy blood clotting.
6. Osteoporosis Prevention and Treatment
Lack of calcium in our bodies caused by low intake of calcium in our diets increases the chance of developing osteoporosis. This is a form of arthritis that causes brittle bones and pain in the joints of knees, hips, spine and hands . As we grow old, we lose bone density. Calcium and Vitamin D are essential nutrients used to help prevent and treat osteoporosis.
7. May Help Reduce the Risks of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for a number of serious health conditions. A number of studies have made links between higher calcium intake and lower blood pressure.
8. Supports Healthy Pregnancy
During pregnancy, high blood pressure can be dangerous. Higher calcium levels may help lower blood pressure for pregnant women.
9. Supports Cognitive Function and Memory
Low levels of calcium can impact cognitive brain function and memory. Hypocalcaemia occurs when there is too little calcium in the blood. The symptoms include memory loss. The condition is treatable.
10. May Help Lower Cholesterol Levels
High blood cholesterol is a serious health concern for heart disease. In 2017, scientists at the University of Alberta and McGill University reported a link between calcium and cholesterol. Studies indicate calcium may help lower cholesterol levels.
11. May Help Support Colon Health
Calcium may support good colon health. While further research is required, a Harvard School of Public Health trial study of 135,000 people suggested that calcium supplements may help reduce their risk of colon cancer.
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