Calcium for healthy bones

The human body requires more calcium than any other mineral. The body of the infant at birth contains about 27.5 g of calcium, while the adult human body contains about 1,000 to 1,200 g. At least 99 per cent of this quantity is found in the bones and teeth, giving them strength and rigidity.

The remaining one per cent, which is in the blood, muscles, and nerves, plays an important role in regulating important physiological functions.

Calcium is a white, malleable, metallic element. Among other substances it is found in chalk, gypsum, and limestone. In the body it is found in various combinations such as calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, calcium fluoride, and calcium sulphate. All these compounds are formed from the calcium carbonate in the organism. Large quantities of fat, oxalic acid, and phytic acid in the food can prevent proper calcium absorption.

Not all the calcium that is present in foods is available to the body. The absorption and retention of this mineral depends on its intake as well as other factors. Normally, approximately 20 to 40 per cent of this mineral is absorbed from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream. The amounts absorbed, however, may be greatly increased during periods of rapid growth when mineral needs are high. Absorption of calcium also depends on the healthy condition of the stomach and intestines and adequate supply of Vitamins B12, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and phosphorus.

Calcium is excreted mostly through the urine and the stools. Excretion in the stools is increased when there is deficiency of fats in the food and when there is defective absorption of calcium in the intestine. It is estimated that the daily excretion of calcium through the urine varies between 100-300 mg in men and 100-250 mg in women. This quantity, however, varies and the excretion becomes less during calcium deficiency.

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