Osteoporosis is a type of degenerative bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone density. During osteoporosis, resorption of bone occurs at a faster rate than bone formation, and the overall concentration of bone is reduced. Bones become brittle and are prone to fractures. Osteoporosis frequently affects women, particularly those who are postmenopausal.
Causes
Calcium is a mineral essential for the maintenance of bone tissue, and estrogen helps the body absorb calcium. When women enter menopause, estrogen levels drop, which causes a decrease in calcium absorption, contributing to osteoporosis. If your overall calcium intake is low, the body removes some calcium from bones to put into the bloodstream, thereby reducing the amount of bone calcium and leading to a brittle state. Some women take supplements to increase their calcium intake.
Coral Calcium
Coral calcium is a type of calcium carbonate created from coral reefs in the ocean. It is manufactured as a type of calcium supplement and may be helpful toward the prevention of osteoporosis. According to Iowa State University Extension, many health claims exist about coral calcium, such as that it helps to fight off hundreds of diseases and it increases your lifespan; but there is a lack of reliable evidence stating that these health claims are actually true.
Warning
The Iowa State University Extension warns that coral calcium is actually a type of calcium supplement called calcium carbonate; but it may contain other materials such as heavy metals, including lead that can lead to toxicity and severe illness. Because coral calcium comes from coral reefs found in the ocean, you may develop a life-threatening reaction if you also have an allergy to shellfish. This is due to the proximity and dwelling of ocean shellfish in or near the coral reef.
Supplements
Many other types of calcium supplements are safe to use to increase your calcium intake. Not all calcium supplements dissolve in the same amount. Although coral calcium is a type of calcium carbonate, other kinds of calcium are available as well. Most supplements are a compound consisting of calcium and another ingredient, such as calcium carbonate or calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate is 40 percent calcium and 60 percent of carbonate or other ingredients. For example, a 500 mg supplement of calcium carbonate contains only 200 mg of calcium. Be sure to read labels carefully to monitor how much calcium is in each type of supplement before you buy.
Prevention/Solution
Preventing osteoporosis starts early in life by eating a nutritious diet. The University of Washington recommends that you get between 1,000 and 1,500 mg of calcium in your diet daily, but do not exceed 2,000 mg. A combination of calcium from food and supplements may help build bones. Try to include foods such as dairy products, including milk, cheese and yogurt; as well as vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli into your diet to increase your intake of calcium. Many breads, juices and cereals are also fortified with calcium to help you reach your recommended daily intake.
References
- The University of Alabama: Osteoporosis: A Biological Maladaptation
- Iowa State University Extension: Coral Calcium
- University of Washington: Calcium to Treat and Prevent Osteoporosis
- "Strong Women, Strong Bones;" M.E. Nelson & S. Wernick; 2000
- The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Calcium Supplement Guidelines
