Most people know that calcium is essential for keeping your bones and teeth healthy, but what else is it good for? Additionally, calcium is a key mineral for keeping your muscles and cardiovascular system healthy.
Still, it is estimated that over 70% of us don't get enough calcium each day, and a calcium deficiency could lead to other problems that include muscle cramps, inability to sleep, or becoming increasingly stressed out.
Plus, a lack of calcium in your body will lead to your bones becoming weaker, and put them at an increased risk for fracture. The effects of a calcium deficiency could be minor or major, so it's important to know the signs of both.
If you're worried that you're not getting enough calcium every day, or that you are showing signs of a calcium deficiency try avoiding these whenever you can.
Your bones need proper vitamin D to absorb calcium, and smoking cigarettes, or using other tobacco products makes it harder for your body to produce vitamin D, which can put you at a greater risk for bone fracture.
The Temple University Health System in Philadelphia found that drinking 2 or 3 ounces of any alcohol on a daily basis can hinder your stomach's ability absorb calcium properly.
Additionally, it can cause problem with your pancreas and decrease it's ability to absorb Vitamin D, which is another key to calcium absorption.
Whether you are taking a prescription medication given to you by your doctor, self medicating an injury, or using supplements such as steroids, your bones could weaken in the process.
If you enjoy starting off your day with a cup of coffee or tea, make sure you're consuming enough calcium because too much caffeine without calcium has been linked to bone loss and weakening.
Soda along with other carbonated drinks contain phosphoric acid, and when consumed in large amounts could begin to replace the calcium in your bones with phosphoric acid.
