Calcium Supplementation

I pick up one of these every few weeks
at the store. Magnesium,Zinc and 
Vitamin D all help with Calcium absorption.

Did you know that you have more calcium in your body than any other mineral? Stored primarily in the bones and teeth, calcium is a mineral found in many foods that is necessary for the proper functioning of the body.

At one point or another, we have all heard that calcium is important for maintaining strong, healthy bones. In addition to this, calcium has other important benefits and functions. Some of these include helping our muscles move, helping blood clot and helping blood move throughout blood vessels. 

As with most things in the body, calcium does not work alone. It requires the assistance of other vitamins for its absorption. Vitamin D is one of these vitamins. In fact, vitamin D forms a hormone called calcitrol that absorbs calcium contained in the stomach. 

Without enough vitamin D the body draws calcium from other parts of the body. Some of these other parts of the body include the bones. Overtime without enough vitamin D, the bones become weaker when deficient of this essential vitamin. Vitamin D can be consumed through supplements as well as certain foods such as salmon, tuna, and cheese, and natural sunlight hitting the skin.

Another important element in the absorption of calcium is magnesium. Magnesium, which also appears in significant levels in the body, is essential for the absorption of both vitamin D and calcium. The presence of magnesium creates a hormone called calcitonin. Calcitonin proves is essential to the strength and growth of bones as it transfers calcium from blood and soft tissue to the bones. 

This process has benefits in itself such as preventing osteoporosis and kidney stones. This process also stimulates a chain reaction by converting vitamin D to its active form, the previously mentioned calcitrol. This in turn aids calcium absorption. These substances vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and boron are all minerals that assist in the absorption of calcium.

The easiest way to consume calcium is by eating a balanced diet with plenty of calcium-rich vegetables. If a medical professional determines you are still lacking an adequate amount of calcium, he/she may advise you to take vitamin supplements to make up for the deficiency. However, it is important to know that as with too much of anything, excessive supplemental calcium can have adverse effects on the body.

There is a long-standing debate over whether calcium is better consumed naturally in food or through supplements. To best understand which is best for you, it is advised that you visit a doctor to have your calcium levels checked. Your doctor will then offer suggestions tailored to your individual situation. Overall however, calcium is a wonderful mineral that is vital for dental health.