Description : Calcium is the most abundant mineral in our body. It plays major roles in our bodies, most importantly strengthening bones and teeth. Inadequate intake of calcium may lead to early bone loss, resulting in fractures in the elderly. In recent years, this problem has caught up with younger generations due to due insufficient intake and sedentary lifestyle. In addition to strengthening our bone and teeth, calcium is also significant in other areas of our health too!
including growth, weight management, maintaining normal nerve cell, muscle, heart and blood clotting functions, enzymatic functions, warding off PMS.
Health benefits of calcium
An adequate intake of calcium, together with appropriate amount of vitamin D can help to increase bone mass in both growing children and adults. Interestingly, a research published in 2005 in the Journal of Medical Association Thailand found that post-menopausal women who took calcium supplements before bed had lower levels of bone loss compared to women who took the supplements after breakfast or dinner. This could be explained that the rate of absorption was probably higher when we sleep.
- Maintenance of normal cellular functions
Calcium is needed in some of our essential body functions, such as maintaining normal cellular health and functions of our nerve tissues, heart, muscle, blood clotting functions and metabolism.
Calcium is essential in metabolic processes. Some researches suggest that calcium may prevent weight gain by increasing the rate of burning of stored fat.
- Prevention of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Dr. S. Thys-Jacobs, an endocrinologist stated that women who do not get enough supplementation of calcium and vitamin D from diet are more likely to suffer from PMS. This is due to the hormones that regulate calcium react negatively with oestrogen and progesterone and lead to trigger of PMS.
Research has found that adequate intake of calcium may help to prevent colorectal, ovarian and breast cancers. However, it is not recommended to take large amount of calcium supplement to prevent cancer.
Caltrate with vitamin D contains:
600 mg of calcium carbonate (elemental calcium)
200 IU of vitamin D (cholecalciferol) per tablet
Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium. Aging significantly decreases the capacity to produce vitamin D, so adults over the age of 65 are particularly susceptible to vitamin D deficiency. You may also be at risk if you do not consume dairy products, since most consumption of vitamin D comes from fortified milk and cereal products.
Adult Dosage: One or two tablets daily with food or as recommended by a physician. Tablet may be broken in half for convenience. Take a few hours before or after taking other medications.
