Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for good health. Especially important for bone health, it helps protect your bones and keep them strong. Calcium also plays a role in controlling your cholesterol and cell environment, as well as contracting muscles and preventing cramps. The average healthy adult needs about 700 to 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. Not getting enough calcium may put you at risk for developing certain health conditions.
Calcium-Deficiency
To find out if you are calcium-deficient, request a blood calcium test that will determine how much calcium is in your bones and how much is circulating in your blood. Health conditions that disrupt calcium regulation may lead to acute or chronic increases in calcium, causing hypercalcemia; or reductions in calcium, causing hypocalcemia, which can be serious if undetected. If your calcium levels are too low or too high you may have an underlying health issue.
Underdeveloped Bones in Children
Research shows that most American children over age eight are not getting enough calcium, increasing their chances of developing bone diseases in adulthood. Evidence also suggests that adolescents are having more fractures, potentially due to calcium deficiencies. Dr. Craig B. Langman, who treats pediatric bone problems at Chicago's Children's Memorial Hospital, reports that "we really should be having more recommendations to pediatricians to think about long-term bone health in kids." Good sources of calcium for your kids include fat-free or low-fat milk, cheese and yogurt.
Osteoporosis
Not getting enough calcium throughout your childhood may lead to osteoporosis as an adult. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes your bones to become porous and soft. Typically occurring after the age of 50, osteoporosis may also lead to decrease in height. It affects women more than men, mainly because of a reduction in estrogen after menopause. Women seeking alternative sources of calcium have the options of vitamins and supplements.
Blood Clots
Lacking calcium in your body may put you at risk for developing blood clots, which could lead to other serious health problems. Blood that clots in your arteries and veins may cause partial to total blockage, resulting in heart, muscle or nerve problems. Blood clots are not easy to detect. Doctors commonly find blood clots during surgeries or look for them if you complain of heart ailments.
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