How does Calcium Deficiency affect Bone Health?

Our bones depend on a balanced diet and a continuous supply of nutrients, especially calcium and vitamin D, for their health and strength. People require calcium to develop and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Additionally, it is crucial for other bodily processes like blood circulation and muscle control. Our bodies require vitamin D to absorb calcium from diet effectively. In addition, Calcium must be absorbed from the foods we eat because it cannot be produced by the body.

Why is Calcium Important?

Calcium is a bone-building mineral for our bodies. The bones and teeth hold a majority of the body’s calcium, which is about 99%. It is responsible for making them strong and hard. The remaining amount of calcium is dedicated to other activities that are responsible for keeping the body functioning normally. It also helps the blood vessels expand and constrict, muscles contract, and in the transmission of the nervous system.

Every day, calcium enters and exits the bones as they undergo continual remodeling. The total amount of bone mass grows in children and teenagers because the body replaces lost bone more quickly than degrades new bone. This lasts until around age 30, at which point the pace of new bone creation and old bone disintegration roughly equalises. Bone is broken down more quickly than it is created up in older adults, especially in post-menopausal women. Consuming a small amount of Calcium in the diet will cause Osteoporosis.

What is the recommended daily intake of Calcium?

The recommended daily intake of calcium varies for people of different age groups. Below-mentioned is the daily suggested intake for adults -

• Adults (19 to 50 years) - 1000 mg per day

• Adults (Men - 51 to 70 years) - 1000 mg per day

• Adults (Women - 51 - 70 years) - 1000 mg per day

• Adults (71 years and above) - 1200 mg per day

• Pregnant and breastfeeding adults - 1000 mg