Health Benefits of Calcium

Calcium is an essential mineral for the healthy maintenance of the body.
The bones and teeth, in particular, need calcium to be strong and function properly. Other body parts and organs prosper as well with the proper dosage of calcium. Calcium can be found not only in milk and yogurt products, but in several other foods such as sardines, spinach, molasses and sesame seeds. Some people find it easier to meet their calcium dosage by taking calcium supplements.

Bone and Tooth Health

When calcium intake is low or poorly absorbed by the body, it negatively affects the bones and teeth. An adequate amount of calcium strengthens these body parts and helps prevent osteoporosis, a disease that damages the bones.

Calcium and Hypertension

Pressure in the arteries reaching 140/90 is considered high. This "hypertension" is potentially dangerous, as it can lead to other bodily dysfunctions, such as heart and kidney disease or stroke. Calcium helps the body to fight against high blood pressure by lowering sodium levels.

Benefits for the Colon

Studies have shown a link between the increased intake of calcium and the reduction of nonmalignant tumors in the colon and rectum.

Transports Nutrients

Calcium helps the body to absorb nutrients by aiding their transport across cell membranes.

Calcium and PMS

Calcium helps to stabilize hormones, easing pre-menstrual symptoms.
Cramping, moodiness and depression are all associated with raised hormonal levels.

Warning

If taking calcium supplements, do not consume more than 500 milligrams at a time, as the body cannot absorb so much at one time.

Warning

Men should not take more than 1,000 milligrams of calcium in a single day as there is a possible link to excessive calcium and prostrate cancer.

Resources

• BNET-Health Publications