Calcium
Probably the most well-known of all the mineral nutrients, calcium is the one found most abundantly in the human body. It is known as the bone mineral, but that is just a fraction of calcium’s beneficial properties.
Calcium is also required for muscular and vascular function, healthy serum cholesterol levels and hormone secretion. Our bodies cannot produce calcium – it must be obtained from the diet. In order to maintain the body’s tight control over serum calcium levels, bones are constantly being “remodeled.” Remodeling consists of calcium deposition and loss (resorption) from bone tissue. Throughout life this process changes – from childhood where deposition of calcium is greater than resorption. In adulthood this process evens out but in later years resorption is higher, leading to bone loss. Dietary intake of calcium is important to offset this imbalance.
The most common types of supplemental calcium are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. Calcium citrate is generally well absorbed and tolerated particularly by people with gastric conditions. Calcium is found in dairy and some non-dairy products including dark, leafy green veggies, fish with soft bones, grains and seeds.
An alternative type of calcium is from a seaweed -based source called red algae (Lithothamnion spp) and is rich in, not only calcium, but magnesium and has more than 70 additional trace minerals. Because it is plant based it is well absorbed and utilized by the body. It also helps regulate key factors involved with immune and blood sugar levels.* http://www.nht.co.nz/Products/Products-by-Brand/NOW-Foods/Red-Algae-Calcium-Powder-227g
Risk factors for osteoporosis and decreased bone density include ageing, diets low in calcium, not exercising enough (weightlifting and strength training help promote bone growth and structure), smoking, excessive alcohol.
Magnesium
– Another extremely important mineral nutrient, magnesium is needed by our immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems for normal function. It works closely with calcium to maintain skeletal health and also helps to regulate blood glucose levels.
Vitamin D
The “Sunshine Vitamin”
Vitamin D is known as a fat-soluble vitamin but is actually a group of fat-soluble secosteroids of which two, ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol, are important for humans. In the human body cholecalciferol can be synthesized from cholesterol in sun-exposed skin, hence its nickname the “Sunshine Vitamin.”
Vitamin D enhances intestinal absorption and metabolism of the dietary minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphate and zinc, and therefore plays a crucial role in skeletal health. Maintaining an adequate level of vitamin D is essential for achieving and maintaining optimal bone mineral density.
Vitamin K2
– Whilst Vitamin K is known primarily for its role in regulating blood coagulation it also supports bone health via calcium metabolism. Vitamin K dependent proteins are found in bone and soft tissue, including osteocalcin, the protein that keeps calcium in bone. The metabolism of these proteins is dependent upon Vitamin K.
Boron
– Boron is a trace mineral that affects calcium, magnesium and phosphorous metabolism. It has been shown to be an essential factor in facilitating bone building nutrients. Studies have shown it to be helpful in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis via helping to decrease the production of inflammatory mediators.
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