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Calcium is a crucial element found in the human body, constituting 1.4% - 1.7% of body weight, with 99% of it residing in the bones. Its role goes beyond just bone health, acting as a cofactor of many enzymes and supporting the circulatory system and the proper functioning of muscles. Although everyone requires an adequate amount of calcium, its significance is particularly emphasized during childhood. This article will explore the importance of calcium in the human body, the consequences of its deficiency, and how to obtain it from natural sources.
Calcium in the Body - How it Functions
Calcium plays a significant role in building and maintaining healthy, strong bones in the human body. The element must be replenished continuously, as a deficiency triggers the release of calcium from the bones. This process, known as bone decalcification, leads to bone loss, which makes the skeletal structure susceptible to fractures and other damage.
Calcium is distributed in soft tissues and body fluids in small amounts, performing various functions such as:
- Conducting impulses for neurotransmission
- Participating in blood clotting
- Regulating cell regeneration and polyfertilisation reactions
- Regulating muscle contractions and hormone release
Adequate calcium supply is crucial, especially during periods of increased demand, such as pregnancy, intensive growth, perimenopausal phase, and in elderly people who experience low bone density as a natural consequence of aging.
Calcium vs. Lime
Calcium and lime are often mistaken for the same substance. Calcium is a chemical element that supports bone health and is present in pharmaceutical preparations and food supplements. In contrast, lime is a chemical used in orchards and construction and is unsuitable for human consumption.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock comprising calcium carbonate and a third distinct substance. It is impossible not to mention limestone and lime in the context of calcium.
Total Calcium - What is it?
Total calcium is a laboratory diagnostic parameter used to determine the amount of calcium (divided into fractions) in blood serum. The test helps evaluate the general level of the element in the body and is commonly employed to monitor and control bone, kidney, parathyroid, or digestive tract diseases.
Calcium concentration measurement in the body is increasingly a part of a panel of preventive tests to detect potential deficiencies, allowing for prompt and effective responses.
Calcium for Children
Calcium is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of healthy bones. This is especially important for children, as their bones are growing and developing rapidly. In this article, we'll explore the importance of calcium for children, where it can be found, and how to ensure that your child is getting enough of this important mineral.
The Importance of Calcium for Children's Bone Health
The bones in our bodies provide the support and structure that allow us to move and function properly. For children, the importance of calcium is greatest in the first three years of life, when their bones are growing and developing at a rapid pace. During this time, the length, thickness, density, and degree of bone calcification are all changing.
Calcium continues to be important for bone health as children grow and develop. If a child does not get enough calcium, their bones may become weak and more susceptible to damage later in life. This can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become fragile and brittle.
The Effects of Calcium Deficiency in Children
Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to calcium deficiency, and the effects of deficiency can be very severe. Adequate supplementation of calcium can help to avoid rickets, a disease that leads to bone deformities, slower growth, and low muscle tone.
Where to Find Calcium in a Child's Diet
When it comes to building strong bones, a well-balanced diet is key. While dairy products are a great source of calcium, it's important to remember that many plant-based foods are also excellent sources of this nutrient. Here are some examples of calcium-rich foods that can be incorporated into a child's diet:
- Fish, such as sprats, sardines, and salmon
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, hazelnuts, and sesame seeds
- Vegetables, such as kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, green beans, broccoli, botanica, parsley, cress, figs, and morele
While dairy products do provide a significant amount of calcium, it's important to choose low-fat or fat-free options whenever possible. Many dairy products are high in saturated fat, which can contribute to health problems if consumed in excess.
Calcium-fortified foods are another good option for ensuring that your child is getting enough of this important nutrient. Look for breakfast cereals, fruit juices, tofu, and soya milk that have been fortified with calcium and vitamin D, which helps the body to absorb calcium more effectively.