It is a known fact that in normal conditions only 10% of the calcium we consume is actually absorbed by the blood. The remaining goes out through urine. Even when we eat lots of calcium-rich foods and dietary supplements, most of us remain calcium deficient because of this loss. There are many factors that contribute to optimal calcium absorption. Let’s have a look at these factors.
Activity of Parathyroid Glands: Naturally 98% of calcium found in our body is present in the bones. Parathyroid glands are responsible for producing parathyroid hormone (PTH) which helps calcium to travel from bones into the bloodstream where it is needed for many important functions. The thyroid gland produces a secretion known as calcitonin which increases bone mineralization.
If due to some health condition this whole process is interrupted, calcium absorption is affected. Our diet plays a major role in deciding how much calcium gets absorbed in the bones and how much is left to be used by the blood. Furthermore, if parathyroid hormone level becomes abnormally high it causes more and more calcium to be transported from the bones to the bloodstream and ultimately bones starts becoming weak.
Due to these reasons it is very important that you eat a proper diet and take high-quality supplements to ensure maximum calcium absorption.
Role of Vitamin D: Vitamin D, as we all know, is a major factor contributing to calcium absorption by the blood. The important thing to know is, if we don’t go out in the sun very often and don’t consume multi-vitamin pills, we might be at high risk of calcium loss. High levels of both vitamin D and calcium are dangerous for health, and therefore blood tests should be performed after every 6 months to measure the level of these two nutrients and other minerals and vitamins important for our health.
Foods that Upset Calcium Absorption: To cut the story short, simply avoid these foods: a protein-rich diet coming from animal sources if you think your mineral consumption is very low, carbonated soft drinks, too much coffee or tea, tobacco, and too much sugar.
Phosphoric acid found in soft drinks disturbs calcium absorption. Similarly, coffee and tea tend to reduce an important enzyme in blood which is required for calcium transportation from bones to the bloodstream.
In addition to the above-mentioned tips, eat fresh fruits and vegetables on a regular basis, drink lots of pure milk, consume high-quality calcium supplements and exercise on a daily basis to overcome calcium deficiency and live a happy, fruitful life.
For optimal bone and joint health, we have been using a special natural calcium formula and for good reason, this formula is known as Bone Protect. We have personally been using this formula for over 3 years with excellent health results.
You can learn more about our product of choice and why we use this product above all other calcium formulas at optimal bone health
John Gibb is the manager of a series health websites. His latest addition discusses the calcium formula himself and the editors consume. For more information on calcium, coral calcium, and bone health as a whole, be sure to check out http://www.optimal-bone-health.com
Tags: Calcium Absorption
