Calcium is used by the human body for several important functions such as lowering blood pressure and maintaining a healthy heartbeat. It is also essential for healthy bones and teeth. Most of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones. Whenever your intake of calcium is lower than the body’s needs, calcium is taken from (leached from) the bones leading to weak and brittle bones.
Conditions calcium helps include:
- Weak bones. Weak bones can cause joint pain and osteoporosis, in addition to fractures. To avoid this, one can take calcium supplements, bone supplements, or increase dietary calcium intake.
- Joint pains. By increasing intake of dietary calcium, one can avoid joint pain without needing calcium supplements or osteoporosis vitamins. Whether you are suffering from joint pain or blood pressure problems, it is recommended to get your calcium levels checked and increase dietary calcium intake.
- Elderly people. Many older people are unable to digest milk and other sources of dietary calcium.
- Children and busy young people. They too need bone supplements as their diets are not balanced.
The best calcium supplements
The best calcium supplements are of animal origin. The human body easily absorbs this form of calcium which helps build strong bones and teeth. Calcium supplements should dissolve easily in your stomach in order to be absorbed by the intestine. In order to help your body absorb calcium better, take your calcium supplements along with your food. Also make sure to spread your intake of bone supplements throughout the day for best results.
When to take calcium
As iron interferes with calcium absorption, if you need to take iron supplements as well, make sure that there is a two-hour gap between your iron and calcium supplements. This way, your calcium supplements will not be wasted due to lack of absorption.
A word of warning
As excess calcium in the body can lead to health problems, it is best to consult your doctor before you begin taking calcium supplements even if you are experiencing joint pain.
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