Calcium is one of the first elements
in the body to drift out of balance due to an inadequate diet.
It is also the most abundant mineral in the human body. A man
weighing 150 pounds contains approximately 3 pounds and 12 ounces
of calcium in his body. Calcium is primarily stored in bones
(99%), where the ratio of calcium to phosphorous is nearly constant
at slightly greater than 2:1.
Vitamin D and magnesium are essential
to the proper absorption and assimilation of calcium. The total
content of calcium in the body is renewed approximately every
six years. It is an alkaline positive mineral that has a powerful
attraction to oxygen. Other elements with which calcium readily
associates are sulfur, silica and carbon. Calcium also helps
maintain a balance between sodium, potassium and magnesium.
Calcium is used in bone formation, also known as bone mineralization,
and in the proper formation and maintenance of teeth. It aids
the blood-clotting process and helps control the passage of
fluids through cells. Calcium is involved in numerous vital
functions throughout the body, including: protein
and fat digestion, energy production, nerve transmission,
neuromuscular activity, and vitamin
B12 absorption. It is also related to proper functioning
of the heart and neuromuscular system. It is important in nerve
impulse transmission, and blood coagulation.
Calcium is required for the release of energy for muscular contraction,
mediates the transport function of cell and organ membranes,
effects the release of neurotransmitters at synaptic junctions,
and mediates the synthesis, secretion and metabolic effects
of hormones and enzymes. This mineral also helps regulate muscle
tone, muscle receptiveness to nerve stimulation and the regulation
of the heartbeat.
Calcium - Functions and
Benefits
Solidity of the body
Helps build and maintain healthy bones and teeth
Essential to fetal growth during pregnancy
Maintains the body's alkaline balance
Helps maintain proper nerve and muscle function
Regulates heart rhythm and lowers blood pressure
Helps regulate the passage of nutrients in and out of cell
walls
Common Deficiency Symptoms
Osteoporosis
Arm and leg muscle spasms
Softening of bones, back and leg cramps
Weakness
Chronic
fatigue
Excessive sweating
- If you are pregnant or nursing do not take any form of vitamin
supplement unless you have discussed its use with your doctor.
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