Calcium is an important mineral for the proper function of bones, cells and nerves. From birth it helps the formation of bones and teeth, while in adults it preserves the constant renewal of them.
It is estimated that bones are made up of 70% calcium and that a deficiency of this mineral can cause diseases such as rickets or osteoporosis. For this reason, we are going to know the signs of calcium deficiency in the bones to know if they are working properly or not.
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Signs that indicate a calcium deficiency
To know if we suffer from calcium deficiency, we can pay attention to a series of symptoms not necessarily related to the bones, but that in the same way show the need for calcium that the body needs, for example the most common are muscle cramps, insomnia, problems in the teeth, among other symptoms related to hypocalcemia (low calcium level).
Muscle cramps
When suffering from a muscle cramp, the first thing that comes to mind is that there is a dehydration with mineral loss that causes the muscle to not function properly. But what actually happens is that the bones do not work properly because of a calcium deficiency. When this occurs when walking or moving, muscle aches may be felt especially in the arms, thighs or armpits.
Hypertension
The people who have high blood pressure is likely not receiving adequate calcium for your body. When the deficiency of this mineral arises, hypertension can develop, so consuming it between meals can reduce its appearance. In some cases, this ailment may not present any symptoms, but others may experience headaches, vision changes, and nasal hemorrhoids.
Dry Skin
The calcium deficiency is mainly reflected in the skin and nails, because it helps regulate quickly the new cells to replace old same. When the skin does not have enough mineral it can appear dry, fine and fragile. To avoid the appearance of dry skin , specialists recommend consuming foods rich in calcium such as natural yogurt , kale, broccoli, fish, sardines, among other foods.
Hair loss
Another sign that indicates the lack of calcium in the body is hair loss, since this mineral has the function of secreting hormones and enzymes. There are hormones such as androgens that help stimulate the growth of the mane and enzymes such as biotin, which promote cell growth and strengthening. This makes hair grow in a short time, so a lack of calcium can cause the loss of it.
Osteoporosis and low bone density
Calcium is essential for bones to stay strong and healthy, but hypocalcemia can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, weak bones, and fractures. For this reason, it is recommended to consume supplements with this mineral that can reduce the risk of developing this disease after menopause for women. In men it can reduce the risk of suffering from bone loss that occurs with age.
Premenstrual syndrome
This type of syndrome can cause headaches, fluid retention in the legs, general swelling, depression, anxiety, and in some cases chest pain. However, scientific studies show that a balance of calcium in the body helps reduce pain caused by menstruation as well as premenstrual symptoms.
Broken bones
When there is a deficiency of calcium in the bones, the tendons may begin to break or sprain, which is a more serious health problem. This mineral is vital for the proper growth of bones, especially to keep them strong, otherwise they can be seriously affected by fractures.
Other signs of a lack of calcium
There are other signs and symptoms that can appear due to a lack of calcium and can easily be confused with other causes. In some cases, symptoms such as bone pain, muscle aches and weakness may appear, including cramps and irritation, headaches, eye spasms, and jaw pain. When these signs appear, it is recommended to go to a specialist to determine the underlying cause.
Foods with calcium
- Nuts can be an ideal supply of calcium. Among the nuts, it is recommended to consume almonds and walnuts, both have calcium and help to strengthen bones. Each of them can be consumed in different ways that are delicious and inexpensive. They also have various vitamins that are important for the proper functioning of the body.
- Broccoli along with kale or the use of cabbage are excellent sources of plant origin that provide calcium to the body.
- Orange juice also contributes this mineral to the body and can be supplied directly from the preparation of an orange juice.
- You can also find it in vegetables such as spinach, eggs, preferably organic, rice milk and fish. Consult an extensive list of foods from which you can obtain calcium without consuming milk.