Naturopathic Information - MICROgenics Calcium Complete

Calcium deficiency throughout life may eventually lead to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal condition characterised by low bone mass. Peak bone mass, which can be defined as the amount of bony tissue present at the end of the skeletal maturation, is an important determinant of osteoporotic fracture. Peak bone mass occurs during adolescent years through to the mid twenties; beyond this there will be a slow and steady decline as we age or until menopause. Achieving the highest possible peak bone mass may reduce the risk of Osteoporosis.

The main source of calcium in the diet is dairy products (milk, yoghurts and cheese) fish (sardines with bones), few vegetables and fruits. The optimal way to achieve adequate calcium intake is through the diet and supplementation.

Bone strength and Osteoporosis

• Approximately 99% of the body’s calcium exists in the bones. The remainder exists in teeth, intracellular and extra cellular fluid
• Calcium is required for normal growth and development and maintenance of the skeleton
• Low calcium intake and a suboptimal vitamin D status are very common in the elderly
• Vitamin D is essential for intestinal calcium absorption and plays a central role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and skeletal integrity. Vitamin D deficiency may result in lack of bone strength and density
• Contains important minerals and nutrients to assist the absorption and utilization of calcium in the bodyv
• Boron plays a role in maintaining calcium balance
• Includes Magnesium and zinc to assist calcium absorption
• 3 to 4 cups of coffee daily may increase urinary excretion of calcium and bone loss in elderly women
• Health professionals encourage regular exercise to enhance the effect of dietary calcium through enhanced bone geometry
• A clinical trial investigated the effects of calcium supplementation (1000mg per day) with physical activity on bone mineral status of adolescent girls aged 16-18 years. The results showed that calcium supplementation and exercise enhanced bone mineral status in adolescent girls.

Women’s health

• Higher calcium amounts are required in menopause as oestrogen levels decline. Oestrogen exerts a protective effect over bone mass and calcium absorption
• Bone loss in premenopausal women over age 40 can be reduced significantly by supplementing with calcium

Muscle Cramps and Spasms/Stress

• Calcium is required for activities inside and outside the cell including muscle contraction and nerve conduction
• Calcium helps to initiate muscle contraction; signs of calcium deficiency may result in muscle cramps and spasms
• Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation; often magnesium deficiency may result in muscle cramps Magnesium is also beneficial for the nervous system helping to relieve nervous tension, stress and mild anxietyv
• Magnesium is important for the metabolism of calcium
• This formula may assist with sleeplessness and insomnia