They say that the food you eat greatly influences your personality! When discussing blood circulation, hormone regulation, and movements of muscles, the writer says that calcium is an essential element. In this article, we shall discuss the benefits of Calcium and possible disadvantages to being observed when One incorporates calcium in their diet.

Calcium is a chemical element with Ca as its symbol in the periodic table and atomic number 20. It is a necessary mineral mainly found in bones and teeth. Calcium benefits various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, blood clotting, and cell signalling.

Moreover, calcium consumption maintains bone density and strength, which are essential for good bone health. Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, etc., are rich sources of calcium.

Yes, consuming calcium benefits your health. Your heart, muscles, and nerves depend on calcium for healthy function, and it aids in the development and maintenance of strong bones. In addition, calcium benefits blood flow, nerve transmission, hormone and enzyme release, muscle contraction, and blood coagulation.

Did you know 99% of all the body’s calcium is stored in bones and teeth? Humans must get enough calcium from the food or supplements they consume. Vitamin D also assists in making sure that the body can absorb calcium. Here are some of the many health benefits of calcium:

1. Helps in Bone Strength

The human body requires calcium for bone growth, development, and remodelling. Calcium is especially important during childhood because it helps develop bones. Calcium also helps build stronger bones and prevent bone mass loss in adults. It also plays a crucial role in bone remodelling, ensuring proper maintenance and repair.

2. Helps with the Movement of Muscles

One advantage of calcium in the human body is its ability to control muscle contractions. When a neuron stimulates a muscle cell, it releases calcium, activating the proteins responsible for muscle contraction. Conversely, when calcium is absent from muscles, they relax naturally. This is because, during muscle contraction, the presence of calcium allows actin and myosin to link together.

3. Helps with Dental Well-being

Human oral health depends on calcium. Low calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D deficiency can lead to weak and thin teeth that may eventually be lost. Having enough calcium is important to keep the jawbones healthy, as this helps keep teeth longer. Furthermore, phosphorous is used to make bones strong.

4. Helps with the Heart and Circulatory System

These are some of the main merits of consuming calcium. Calcium contributes to the ability of blood vessels to contract or relax depending on one’s body's needs. Older people who might be prone to hypertension can reduce their high blood pressure by taking calcium supplements.

5. Helps People with Colon Cancer

Calcium may benefit individuals with colon cancer, but more research is needed to understand its role fully. Some studies have suggested that calcium may help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, and ongoing research is exploring its potential effects on cancer prevention and treatment.

6. Aids in the Management of Weight

Calcium may play a role in weight management, although its effects are likely modest and influenced by various factors. Some research suggests that calcium-rich diets or calcium supplements may help support weight loss or prevent weight gain. It also helps maintain muscle mass, which can further support weight management efforts.

7. Beneficial for Preeclampsia

Calcium supplementation has been studied for its potential role in reducing the risk of preeclampsia, particularly in women with low dietary calcium intake. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys.

8. People with High Blood Pressure

Calcium may have some potential benefits for individuals with high blood pressure. However, its effects can vary depending on factors such as the source of calcium, individual health status, and overall diet and lifestyle. Some research suggests that increasing dietary calcium intake, particularly from dairy sources, may significantly lower blood pressure.

Consequently, low levels of calcium increase risks for diseases such as hypocalcemia, which leads to a deficiency in this mineral. A diet poor in calcium since childhood could cause it, as could medications inhibiting the body's absorption of this mineral. Another cause could be an inability to consume calcium-rich foods due to food intolerances, hormonal imbalances, and genetics.

These are a few signs of hypocalcemia:

• Muscle cramps which limit movement, walking, and talking

• Lack of direction or failure to recall things

• Hand, foot and face paresthesia

• Delusions and despair

• Atrophy of toenails and fingers

• Periodontal disease and dental caries

• Simple fracture of bone

If you notice any of these problems in your body, do not hesitate to call your local doctor immediately. If they suspect that calcium is deficient, they will use blood tests to measure albumin, ionised calcium, and calcium. The normal level for adults should lie between 8.8 mg/dl and 10.4 mg/dl.

When individuals consume a diet with high quantities of calcium, their bodies promptly show the effects exerted by calcium. Foods work faster than calcium tablets. Normally, adults should take in about 1000 mg of calcium per day, which benefits the skin.

Some foods that are rich in bone-building nutrient called calcium include:

Incorporating calcium into your diet is crucial for maintaining strong bones and overall health. Here are various ways to include calcium-rich foods in your meals:

• Smoothies: Blend calcium-rich ingredients like yoghurt, milk, or fortified plant-based milk with fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack

• Salads: Add leafy greens like kale, spinach, or collard greens to your salads. Add calcium-rich additions like canned salmon, sardines, tofu, or almonds for an extra boost.

• Omelettes or Scrambles: Sprinkle grated cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, into your omelette or scramble to boost calcium and flavour. Alternatively, add diced tofu, a good source of calcium, to your egg mixture before cooking.

• Soups and Stews: To enhance the calcium content of soups and stews, add ingredients like milk, cheese, or fortified broth. Add beans, lentils, or leafy greens for an additional calcium boost.

• Yoghurt Parfaits: Incorporate calcium into your diet by layering yoghurt parfait with fruits, nuts, and granola, providing a delicious and nutritious way to boost your calcium intake.

• Calcium-Fortified Foods: Choose calcium-fortified foods such as orange juice, breakfast cereals, tofu, or plant-based milk alternatives to ensure you're getting an extra dose of calcium.

• Whole Grain Wraps or Sandwiches: Fill entire grain wraps or sandwiches with canned salmon with bones, leafy greens, cheese, and hummus for a calcium-packed lunch or dinner option.

Remember to switch up your calcium sources to ensure a balanced diet of nutrients. Moreover, to improve the body's absorption of calcium, combine foods high in calcium with sources of vitamin D.

Even though the body needs calcium, taking too much can have negative effects. Physicians typically advise consuming 1,000 mg of calcium daily. However, there is a significant risk of hypercalcemia when this limit is exceeded. The disorders can be triggered by various forms of malignancy and past parathyroid issues. Furthermore, they can also strike those who use an excessive amount of calcium drugs.

Here are a few of the symptoms:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urine due to the kidneys' inability to filter more quickly

• Gastrointestinal distress resulting in upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and constipation

• Frequent bone and muscle discomfort due to weak bones

• Fatigue, confusion, and sluggishness impair brain function.

• Signs of cardiac arrhythmia, palpitations, and fainting 

As a result, whenever you notice these symptoms, make sure to consult your doctor and receive a diagnosis. Despite the many health benefits of calcium, over-ingestion of the mineral might have detrimental effects.

While calcium is essential for most people's health, certain individuals should be cautious or avoid consuming excessive amounts of calcium without consulting a healthcare professional:

• Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding: Elevated dosages may put the baby at greater risk of seizures. Remember to account for your overall calcium consumption from dietary and supplement sources.

• Children: The recommended daily allowance (UL) for children ages 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 1–8 years, and 9–18 years is 1000 mg, 1500 mg, 2500 mg, and 3000 mg, respectively. Kids shouldn't overindulge in calcium; they should only get the daily amount needed.

• Low Stomach Acid (Achlorhydria): People with low stomach acid absorb less calcium when administered on an empty stomach. Therefore, those with low stomach acids should take calcium supplements with meals.

• Excessive Blood Calcium: If you have a condition that raises your calcium levels, such as parathyroid gland disease or sarcoidosis, you should avoid calcium. Taking supplements can also cause increased calcium levels.

• Renal Diseases: Taking calcium supplements may cause excessive calcium levels in those with renal disorders. Consult a physician before taking calcium supplements.

• Stroke: Individuals who have had a stroke may be more likely to develop dementia if they have used calcium supplements for five or more years. 

Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Its benefits extend beyond bone health, including muscle function, nerve transmission, and hormonal secretion. It's essential to be mindful of individual health conditions and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised recommendations on calcium intake.