According to the National Institute of Health, calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. This mineral that can be found in a wide variety of foods such as milk and spinach. Calcium is responsible for muscle contraction, blood vessel expansion and secretion of hormones. A poor dietary intake or health condition may lead to calcium deficiency, resulting in a detrimental effect in your health.
Osteoporosis
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Osteoporosis represents a threat to 44 million Americans, 68 percent of them women. This condition characterized by decreased bone mass, may increase the risk of hip and wrist fractures. Bone loss may occur without symptoms until a sudden fall causes a fracture. According to the National Institute of Health, women are at higher risk of suffering osteoporosis due to the hormonal changes occurred after the menopause. Low estrogen levels and absence of menstrual periods may decrease absorption and use of calcium.
Cardiac Arrhythmia
The American Heart Association defines cardiac arrhythmia as changes in the sequences of heartbeats. When the heartbeats are too fast are called tachycardia and bradycardia when the heartbeats are too slow. People with arrhythmia may experience palpitations in the chest, shortness of breath, fainting and chest pain. An electrocardiogram helps to diagnose cardiac arrhythmia.
Hypertension
According to a study published in "Hypertension," a journal of the American Heart Association, dietary calcium was associated with reduced risk of hypertension. The research article also discusses that a high calcium diet may help inhibit smooth muscle constriction, improve sodium potassium balance, weight loss and insulin sensitivity, all of which helps to reduce the risk of hypertension.
Other Problems
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, calcium deficiency may also cause muscle cramps, numbness of the fingers, lethargy and convulsions. The premenstrual syndrome is also associated with a calcium deficiency. If left untreated, calcium deficiency may lead to death.
