Calcium Absorption: An Overview

Approximately 1.5 per cent to 2 per cent of the total weight of the human body is calcium - 99 per cent of which is concentrated in bones and teeth. The remaining 1 per cent is vital to the normal functioning of cells and the fluids inside and around the cells.

Calcium is also important in muscle functioning. Stored calcium, in bones and teeth, will be used by the body for these other urgent needs when necessary. People do not always absorb all of the calcium that may be ingested in their diet. Individuals will differ greatly in the extent of absorption.

In fact, if 20 per cent to 30 per cent of ingested calcium is absorbed, it is considered good. Some may only gel around 10 per cent. Many factors are responsible for these wide variances. Most of the absorption occurs in the small intestine and there are many conditions which will influence a greater absorption level.

The body's own need for calcium is a primary reason for absorbing it more efficiently. During pregnancy and lactation the needs is greatly increased. If the diet does not provide adequate amounts the body will take what's necessary from the bones and teeth. Years ago, pregnant women often lost teeth.

The rapid growth years of the teens also present a greater need for calcium. It has been found that certain factors tend to lessen the absorption rate. Among them is the presence of a high fat diet.

The degree of emotional instability plays an important role too. These two factors are often found among the extremely overweight.

Increased intestinal tract mobility, or diarrhea, will also lessen the calcium absorption.

Oxalic acid, which is found in some fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, beet greens, chard and rhubarb, combines with calcium in the intestines and forms calcium oxalote which cannot be absorbed.

This does not affect the calcium absorption in other foods, such as milk, that may be consumed with spinach.

Phytic acid, found in the outer husks of cereals, also depresses calcium absorption by combining it in an insoluble complex.

Elderly and bedridden people often develop a loss of bone calcium because of immobility, and an impaired ability to absorb and utilize it properly. The intake of adequate amounts of vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) helps, and is indeed necessary for the utilization of calcium.

Emotional stability also has a marked effect on calcium absorption. Beside calcium absorption emotional stress plays havoc on the human body in many areas of nutrition.

Drinking milk, just before retiring, has a tranquilizing effect as well as adding considerable calcium and vitamins.