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Calcium

Description

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body with 99% of it deposited in the bones and teeth. The remaining 1% of calcium is used for numerous functions including muscle contraction, blood clotting, vitamin D metabolism and nerve transmission. Calcium functions when combined with phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and several vitamins (A, C, D and possibly E). Calcium builds and maintains bones and teeth (along with phosphorus). Calcium is also essential for healthy blood and it helps regulate heartbeat, eases insomnia, assists in blood clotting, plays a part in muscle growth, muscle contraction, and nerve transmission, aids in iron utilization, activates several enzymes and regulates passage of nutrients in and out of cells.

Chelated calcium is calcium bound to an organic acid, such as citrate, malate, aspartate, gluconate, lactate, etc. The chelated forms offer some advantages and disadvantages over calcium carbonate. On the positive side, calcium citrate or malate are well absorbed regardless of stomach acid. Calcium citrate/malate is approximately 4-5% more absorbable than calcium carbonate (some studies show no difference in absorption). On the other side, calcium citrate/malate is much more expensive and bulkier than calcium carbonate. In other words, you have to take more pills of the citrate/malate in order to get the same amount of elemental calcium from calcium carbonate (approximately 5-6 more capsules). An example of the amount of elemental calcium found in 1000 mg of different forms of calcium is as follows: 400 mg of elemental calcium from 1000 mg calcium carbonate, 210 mg of elemental calcium from 1000 mg calcium citrate and 180 mg of elemental calcium from 1000 mg calcium aspartate.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Osteoporosis - Cramps - Anxiety - Insomnia - Colon problems - Injury - Hypertension - Indigestion - Kidney stones - Pregnancy - PMS - Peridontal disease - Rickets

Clinical Applications/Research

Possible effects of Calcium Deficiency

Osteoporosis, muscle cramps, joint aches, rickets, osteomalacia, insomnia, mouth and gum disease, heart disorders, colitis, colon cancer, rheumatism, hypertension, brittle nails, nervous disorders, kidney stones, and menstrual cramps

Inflammation

Calcium helps transport essential minerals to the site of inflammation. After periods of trauma, the system tends to be alkaline, and it is important for an acid-calcium to deliver healing nutrients to binding sites. Calcium significantly improves symptoms of pouchitis (chronic and/or acute inflammation of the ileal reservoir) (Ann Chiro 1993;47(10):1049-53). An acid environment solubilizes and ionizes the insoluble calcium salts in the body (calcium has to be ionized in the intestines in order to be absorbed).

Calcium Balance

Eating a red meat/high protein diet may leach calcium from the system (controversial). Sodium and the phosphoric acid in soda drinks also leach calcium. High fiber foods may increase calcium excretion and should be taken into consideration, especially when assessing requirements for the elderly.

Heart Disease

Calcium has repeatedly shown in clinical trials that one of its effects on the cardiovascular system is to lower blood pressure, therefore having the potential to reduce risk for heart disease (Belizan, JM Villar J. Gonzales, L. “Calcium supplementation to prevent hypertensive disorders of pregnancy” NEJM 1991; 325(20): 1399-1404. Calcium supplementation on normotensive and hypertensive pregnant women. AJCN 1992; 55:891-95. Dietary calcium and blood pressure: modifying factors in special populations. AJCN 1991; 54:215S-21).

Contraindications/Toxicology

Calcium can interfere with the absorption of some drugs (Dilantin, Antibiotics, Thiazide diuretics and Calcium Channel Blockers) and should not be taken at the same time. Soy can interfere with the absorption of calcium and should be taken at different times.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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