Calcium

Calcium is an essential mineral and the most abundant mineral found in the human body. Approximately 99% of the body's Calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, providing the structural integrity, rigidity, and hardness necessary for the skeletal system. However, Calcium's role extends far beyond mere construction material. The remaining $1\%$ of Calcium, circulating in the blood, muscle cells, and other fluids, plays critical roles in sustaining life. It is an essential electrolyte that regulates muscle contraction, including that of the heart muscle; it is necessary for blood clotting; and it functions as a crucial signal transmitter between nerve cells. Maintaining balanced Calcium levels in the blood is paramount and is tightly regulated by hormones like parathyroid hormone and calcitonin. Chronic deficiency in Calcium can lead to low bone mineral density (osteoporosis), significantly increasing the risk of fractures.

Uses of Calcium

Calcium is commonly supplemented through diet or as oral supplements to ensure adequate intake for critical physiological functions.

  • Bone and Dental Health Maintenance: The primary use is to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth throughout the lifespan, helping to prevent and manage osteoporosis.

  • Muscular and Nervous System Function: Supplementation ensures proper levels for normal muscle contraction and efficient nerve signal transmission.

  • Blood Pressure Regulation: Adequate Calcium intake has been shown in studies to help regulate and reduce the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure).

  • Preventing Deficiency: Used to treat hypocalcemia (abnormally low blood Calcium levels), especially in individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications.

References

References concerning Calcium primarily focus on its role in bone health and metabolism.

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of Dietary Supplements. Calcium Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.

  • Weaver, C. M., & Peacock, M. Calcium. In: Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 11th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2014.

  • National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF). Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General. 2004.

  • Wark, J. D. Calcium. In: Clinical Nutrition: A Functional Approach. 2017.

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