Osteoporosis and Calcium
The link between
Osteoporosis and Calcium levels in the
body is undeniable. Calcium is the major building block of our
skeletal system, and is extremely important for healthy bones. If the
body is not getting enough calcium, it can contribute to the
individual’s potential of
developing osteoporosis.
Our requirements vary due to our age and sex. The need for calcium is
greatest during the teen years when the growth of our skeletal system
is at its most rapid. In a healthy, young individual, the body has a
great ability to efficiently absorb this important mineral. This
ability starts to deteriorate as we get older, and at certain times in
our life, ie. following menopause.
An adequate intake of calcium is essential, as the body does not produce it on its own.
Calcium enriched foods include:
-
Salmon – if tinned, important to eat the bones.
An important point to make here, is that it is not only necessary to
include calcium enriched food in your diet, but it is equally important
to avoid things that reduce the body's ability to absorb calcium.
Ways to increase your calcium intake include:
- Vitamin D, as it helps facilitate its absorption. The best way to
get this is simply to expose yourself to sunlight for about 15 minutes,
three times a week without sunscreen. It is however, still important
to think sensibly about the sun, by avoiding the middle of the day.
- Magnesium also aids calcium absorption. Good sources of magnesium include nuts, wholegrains and fish.
- Vitamin C is another vitamin that assists in the absorption of calcium.
- Eat foods rich in lysine, as this also helps the body to absorb calcium. Lysine rich foods include fish, eggs and dairy.
- Regular exercise, particularly weight bearing exercise.
- Divide up your calcium intake over the day, makes it easier to absorb.
- If taking supplements, calcium in a liquid form is absorbed faster than in tablet form.
By addressing the important link between Osteoporosis and Calcium,
you can not only decrease your risk of developing this condition, you
can also help to slow down its progress, as well as improve the quality
of your life.
Learn more about the type of
treatments available to treat osteoporosis.
