CALCIUM
Calcium is a nutrient that all living organisms need, including humans. It is the most abundant mineral in the body, and it is vital for bone health.
Humans need calcium to build and maintain strong bones, and 99% of the body’s calcium is in the bones and teeth.
It is also necessary for maintaining healthy communication between the brain and other parts of the body. It plays a role in muscle movement and cardiovascular function.
Calcium occurs naturally in many foods, and food manufacturers add it to certain products. Supplements are also available.
WHY WE NEED CALCIUM
Calcium plays various roles in the body. These include the following:
BONE HEALTH
Around 99% of the calcium in the human body is in the bones and teeth. Calcium is essential for the development, growth, and maintenance of bone.
As children grow, calcium contributes to the development of their bones. After a person stops growing, calcium continues to help maintain the bones and slow down bone density loss, which is a natural part of the aging process.
MUSCLE CONTRACTION
Calcium helps regulate muscle contraction. When a nerve stimulates a muscle, the body releases calcium. The calcium helps the proteins in muscle carry out the work of contraction.
Calcium’s role in muscle function maintaining the action of the heart muscle. Calcium relaxes the smooth muscle that surrounds blood vessels.
Calcium is a co-factor for many enzymes. Without calcium, some key enzymes.
BENEFITS OF CALCIUM
– Lower risk of developing conditions involving high blood pressure during pregnancy.
– Lower blood pressure in young people
– Lower risk of colorectal adenomas, a type of non-cancerous tumor.
CALCIUM RICH FOODS
People can obtain calcium from a range of foods and drinks such as:
*Yogurt
*Milk
*Sardines and salmon
*Cheese
*Green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, turnip leaves, watercress, and kale.
*Many fortified breakfast cereals
*Fortified fruit juices,
*Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, sesame, and chia
*Legumes and grains
*Cornmeal and corn tortillas.
Stay healthy, Stay strong with CALCIUM!!!
Written by Osuegbu Lilian Nkechi
