One of the most overlooked pieces of nutritional information about foods we take in is the amounts and types of vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, this is also one of the most crucial. Without certain vitamins and minerals, the human body simply can't function correctly. Calcium is one of these essential minerals. This important nutrient does a number of positive things for the body. Calcium keeps the bones healthy, blood pressure low, and weight under control. These are only a few of the many benefits calcium provides.
What Is Calcium?
According to the National Institutes of Health, calcium is "the most abundant mineral in the body." It is necessary for many bodily functions, including "muscle contraction, blood vessel expansion and contraction, secretion of hormones and enzymes, and [impulse transmission]." Although calcium is produced in high amounts within the body, it may also be found in a number of food sources and dietary supplements.
Blood Pressure Control
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a problem that many individuals face. With the use of calcium, however, blood pressure may be controlled to some degree. Studies have shown that diets high in calcium result in a decrease in blood pressure and risk of hypertension. The American Heart Association's DASH Diet contains high amounts of fiber and calcium. One particular study regarding this diet was published in the "Journal of Pediatrics." Although the DASH Diet contains a number of other important minerals, the positive results indicate that calcium does play some role in blood pressure control.
Bone Health Upkeep
This is perhaps one of the most widely recognized benefits of calcium. A study published the medical journal "Bone" proves the importance of calcium for bone health. Results showed that children with low calcium numbers who substantially upped their calcium intake significantly increased their BMC, or bone mineral content. BMC is considered a strong indicator of bone health.
Weight Management
A study analysis performed by professors at Creighton University directly links calcium to weight control and fat loss. Data from several observational studies and trials was collected and analyzed to determine calcium's effect on weight. The results led these individuals to the conclusion that "increased calcium intake results in reduced body weight, mainly by reducing fat mass." It should be noted, however, that calcium is only one player in the weight management equation. Many other factors influence body weight.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the above benefits, calcium offers a number of others. Evidence has shown calcium plays a role in the risk of colorectal cancer. Calcium also decreases the risk of kidney stones. Previously high calcium was thought to result in kidney stones, but recent findings have proved otherwise.
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