Calcium
Calcium is a mineral essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, and is also necessary for muscle and nerve function.
Effectiveness and Risk Overview
Condition | Effectiveness | Details |
---|---|---|
Tetany | Calcium is critical for neuromuscular function, and its deficiency can cause tetany; supplementation can effectively treat and prevent this condition. | |
Hypocalcemia (Calcium Deficiency) | Calcium supplementation is a direct treatment for hypocalcemia, correcting the deficiency and alleviating associated symptoms. | |
Osteoporosis | Calcium is crucial for bone health, and numerous studies have shown that adequate calcium intake can help prevent and treat osteoporosis. | |
Muscle Cramps | Calcium plays a role in muscle function, and its supplementation can help alleviate muscle cramps, particularly in individuals with hypocalcemia or during pregnancy. | |
Bone Density Loss | Calcium is essential for maintaining bone density, and its supplementation can help mitigate bone density loss associated with aging or other conditions. | |
Osteopenia | Calcium supplementation has been shown to improve bone density in individuals with osteopenia, reducing the risk of progression to osteoporosis. | |
Cramps | Similar to muscle cramps, calcium can help alleviate cramps by supporting muscle function and neuromuscular transmission. | |
Causes kidney stone formation. | Excessive calcium intake can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, particularly in individuals with a history of kidney stone formation. | |
Interferes with iron absorption. | High calcium intake can interfere with iron absorption, potentially leading to iron deficiency in some individuals. |
Recommended Supplement