Table of Contents
What do we use calcium for in our bodies?
The body needs calcium to maintain strong bones and to carry out many important functions. Almost all calcium is stored in bones and teeth, where it supports their structure and hardness. The body also needs calcium for muscles to move and for nerves to carry messages between the brain and every body part.
Where is calcium produced in the body?
Bones are the main storage site of calcium in the body. Your body cannot make calcium. The body only gets the calcium it needs through the food you eat, or from supplements. If you do not get enough calcium in your diet, or if your body does not absorb enough calcium, your bones can get weak or will not grow properly.
How much calcium should an 11 year old have?
Kids and Teens Kids need more calcium as they get older to support their growing bones: Kids 1 to 3 years old need 700 mg of calcium a day (2–3 servings). Kids 4 to 8 years old need 1,000 mg of calcium a day (2–3 servings). Kids and teens 9 to 18 years old need 1,300 mg of calcium a day (4 servings).
What is the major source of calcium in the body?
The main foods rich in calcium are dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. However, many non-dairy sources are also high in this mineral. These include seafood, leafy greens, legumes, dried fruit, tofu and various foods that are fortified with calcium.
How does calcium Effect Your Body?
Calcium performs a number of basic functions in your body. Your body uses 99 percent of its calcium to keep your bones and teeth strong, thereby supporting skeletal structure and function. The rest of the calcium in your body plays key roles in cell signaling, blood clotting, muscle contraction and nerve function.
What are the side effects of taking calcium?
The side effects of calcium supplements can include: constipation and upset stomach. Additionally, more serious calcium side effects can include: nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, mental/mood changes, bone/muscle pain, headaches, increased thirst/urination, weakness and fatigue.
What is the role of calcium in bone?
Calcium plays a very important role in bone remodeling. In this process bone is deposited by osteoblasts and resorption is carried out by osteoclasts. In the bone deposition process bone is created by calcium and phosphate ions binding to create hydroxyapatite crystals.