Calcium
Calcium Benefits
Helps Keep Bones Strong and Healthy
Consumption of calcium is essential for building bones and increasing bone density. Calcium consumed in the earlier years of life plays an important part in preventing deterioration of bones later in life. Moreover, its intake is essential for preventing osteoporosis, which is a bone disorder wherein the bones become fragile and porous. This renders the bone very susceptible to fractures. A plethora of research evidence indicates that taking adequate amounts of calcium along with vitamin D and a balanced diet may help lower the risk of osteoporosis in the later years of life.[r320]
Supports The Cardiovascular System
Calcium is also regarded to be essential for maintaining the health of the heart and related systems. It is found that calcium plays a role in relaxing the muscles present around the blood vessels. This is critical in helping the heart perform well. Therefore, studies have presented a significant link between adequate intake of calcium and lower levels of blood pressure.[r319]
May Help Reduce Risk of Colon Cancer
The data on the benefits of calcium regarding prevention of colon cancer remains inconclusive, however, there is enough data to indicate that calcium supplementation is effective in reducing the development of adenomatous polyps. These polyps are potentially cancerous, and their reduction due to calcium consumption is a promising health benefit. A research study found that calcium intake was linearly associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer, primarily distal colon cancer.[r322]
Daily Intake For Calcium
Healthy Foods High In Calcium
- All food nutrient profiles are based on a weight of 100 grams.
- * RDI values are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day (Female, Age 19-30).
- All foods are vegetarian.
Sources
- r322. Calcium intake and colorectal cancer risk: Results from the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study
- r321. Calcium Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
- r320. The Roles of Calcium and Vitamin D in the Prevention of Osteoporosis
- r319. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- r318. The Association between the Risk of Premenstrual Syndrome and Vitamin D, Calcium, and Magnesium Status among University Students: A Case Control Study
- r317. Effects of dairy intake on body weight and fat: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials